Tokyo, Oct 27 (V7N) — After years of political turmoil, Japanese voters are casting their ballots today to elect a new leader. Polling stations opened Sunday morning and will remain open until 8 p.m. local time. The outcome of the election could reshape the country’s political landscape, with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) facing the possibility of losing its decade-long grip on power.

Opinion polls and political analysts suggest that the LDP, led by Shigeru Ishiba, may struggle to secure the desired results. The LDP has faced stiff competition from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), Japan's second-largest party, in several key districts.

The election comes at a time when the government is grappling with widespread criticism over financial scandals, inflation, and the rising cost of living. Additionally, increasing tensions with China have added to voter discontent. The election for the 465-seat lower house of parliament is crucial, as the LDP-Komeito coalition needs to secure at least 233 seats to maintain its majority.

The LDP’s current prime minister, Fumio Kishida, who succeeded Yoshihide Suga in 2021, has announced he will not run for the party’s leadership again. Kishida’s tenure has been marred by a major financial scandal within the LDP, leading to a sharp decline in his popularity. Kishida had earlier won national elections in October 2021 but has faced criticism over his handling of economic challenges and governance issues.

As voters head to the polls today, Japan faces a critical moment that could mark the end of the LDP’s long-standing dominance and usher in new leadership. The results are expected to shape the political and economic future of the country.

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