Japan's Takaichi faces criticism and internal LDP tensions

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing criticism from former lawmaker Ichiro Ozawa following her recent comments regarding the special Diet session. During a press conference, Takaichi stated she had “no particular points of reflection” regarding the session, despite declining cabinet approval ratings. Ozawa criticized this stance on social media, arguing that a failure to reflect prevents growth and that the public ultimately bears the consequences of such leadership.

Simultaneously, political tension is reportedly growing between Prime Minister Takaichi and LDP Vice President Taro Aso. While Aso was a key figure in Takaichi’s rise, friction has emerged over policy disagreements, including consumption tax cuts and relations with the Nippon Ishin no Kai party. The relationship has been further strained by Aso’s leadership in pushing through controversial amendments to the Imperial House Law, a move linked to recent drops in cabinet support. As a cabinet reshuffle approaches, observers are closely watching how much influence Aso will maintain over the administration.