Japan's LDP and Nippon Ishin Agree Coalition to Enable First Female PM

Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) have reached a broad agreement to form a coalition government, paving the way for Sanae Takaichi to become Japan's first female prime minister. The two parties plan to sign the coalition agreement soon, with Ishin supporting Takaichi in the upcoming parliamentary vote but initially not joining her cabinet. This coalition follows the departure of Komeito, the LDP's junior partner for 26 years, which left due to disagreements over Takaichi's leadership style and conservative policies. As part of the coalition deal, the LDP has promised to work toward eliminating the sales tax on food items and banning corporate donations, key demands from Ishin. Despite the alliance, the combined seats of the LDP and Ishin do not yet constitute a majority in the House of Representatives, suggesting potential governance challenges for Takaichi's administration. The coalition thus represents both a historic leadership milestone and a complex political balancing act for Japan.