Policy push accelerates at the Liberal Democratic Party convention on Sunday. Specifically, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made clear her stance on advancing policies bearing her own color. These include amending the Constitution, ensuring stable Imperial succession, and building a strong economy. The enthusiastic public response to the party’s overwhelming victory in the February lower house election has encouraged this effort.
Takaichi spoke for about 20 minutes at the convention. She expressed her determination to realize conservative policies and promote aggressive fiscal action. Regarding constitutional amendment, she spoke of her intention to advance Diet discussions. What politicians must do to fulfill the public’s trust is to engage in discussions to make a decision.
Takaichi also addressed stable Imperial succession. She called for revising the Imperial House Law to grant Imperial family status through adoption. The adoption would apply to male members in the paternal line of former Imperial family branches. Consequently, the historical fact of Imperial succession through the male line is the source of an emperor’s authority and legitimacy.
As for building a strong economy through growth, Takaichi said what is overwhelmingly lacking is domestic investment. We will take decisive action to promote building an economic structure resilient to exchange rate fluctuations. She also vowed to win the unified local elections next year and the upper house election in 2028. About 2,100 lawmakers and rank-and-file party members attended the convention.
However, the ruling parties do not hold a majority in the upper house. Important bills could face rejection in that chamber. After the convention, LDP Secretary General Shunichi Suzuki touched on the need to expand the coalition framework. To stabilize the party’s foundation, we are also considering seeking more cooperation in the form of a larger coalition, he said. Some party members believe Suzuki made the statement with the Democratic Party For the People in mind. The LDP has been seeking a coalition with the DPFP. Therefore, it is unnecessary to change the goal of forming a coalition with the DPFP, an LDP executive said.
Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the Japan Innovation Party, attended as a guest. He flattered Takaichi, saying she is the source of the power. The coming weeks will reveal whether Takaichi can translate convention promises into legislative action. She has staked her political future on these initiatives. Thus, Japan’s political landscape may look very different if she succeeds.
