Tokyo, Oct 28 (V7N)- In a significant political shift, Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has lost its majority in the lower house of parliament for the first time in a decade. The results reflect the LDP’s poorest showing in provincial elections since 2012, even with its coalition partner, Komeito. According to BBC News, the coalition’s combined seats stand at 208, short of the 233 seats required to hold a majority.

As of the latest reports, the opposition bloc has gained ground with 235 seats, marking a substantial increase from previous elections. The main opposition, the Constitutional Democratic Party (CPD), emerged as a leading force among the opposition parties. Japanese state media confirmed that all 465 lower house seats were contested, with voter turnout reaching 20.95 million.

Polling stations opened at 7:00 AM and closed at 8:00 PM local time, with vote counting beginning immediately afterward. Preliminary results trickled in through the night, underscoring the LDP’s losses. The last election saw the LDP alone secure 247 seats, while this time, its coalition with Komeito has struggled to hold its ground.

The results have intensified questions surrounding Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s tenure, with analysts speculating he may face challenges retaining his position. If confirmed, Ishiba could become one of Japan's shortest-serving prime ministers since World War II, underscoring the LDP’s vulnerability amidst shifting public sentiment and increasing opposition strength.

The final results and official seat allocations are expected soon, which will confirm the balance of power in Japan’s lower house.

END/RH/AJ