Japan's political landscape is shaking up as junior coalition partner Komeito announces its split from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) after 25+ years of partnership. The breakup comes amid clashes over political funding reforms and could derail LDP leader Sanae Takaichi's bid to become Japan's first female prime minister. 🚨
Why the Split?
Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito cited "irreconcilable differences" over corporate donation limits and transparency measures during a tense Friday meeting with Takaichi. The party demanded stricter caps on business donations (¥20M/year max 💰) to curb corporate influence—a move the LDP, Japan's top recipient of such funds, resisted.
What's Next for Japan?
With Komeito refusing to back Takaichi in parliament, the LDP now needs opposition support to secure her leadership. Analysts warn this could impact fiscal policies and even unravel the "Takaichi trade"—market bets on stimulus under her leadership. 📉
The split revives debates about Japan's political ethics, with Komeito declaring: "We prioritize cleaning up money in politics." Meanwhile, Takaichi faces an uphill battle to unite a fractured Diet. Will this mark a new era—or chaos? Stay tuned. 🔍
