高市早苗选择“政治豪赌”，在野政党痛批“没有大义”，日本迎来“最匆忙”大选

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's decision to dissolve the House of Representatives on the opening day of the Diet session is seen as a high-risk political gamble aimed at capitalizing on the current high approval ratings to secure more seats in the upcoming election, which is scheduled for February 8, 2024, just 16 days after the dissolution [1][4][8]. Group 1: Political Context - This dissolution marks the first time in 60 years that the House of Representatives has been dissolved on the opening day of a Diet session, and it creates a record for the shortest interval between dissolution and election since World War II [1]. - The current House of Representatives has 465 seats, and the ruling coalition, after a recent shift in alliances, barely holds a majority with 233 seats [4][8]. - The opposition parties have criticized the dissolution as a self-serving political maneuver that prioritizes party interests over the public's needs [1][6]. Group 2: Election Implications - The upcoming election is expected to significantly impact Japan's future domestic and foreign policies, with the ruling party aiming to solidify its power amid rising public concerns over economic issues and international relations [1][8]. - The newly formed "Center Reform Coalition" by the major opposition parties aims to challenge the ruling coalition, focusing on issues like reducing the food consumption tax and addressing political corruption [9][10]. - Key campaign issues will include economic policies, foreign relations, and defense strategies, with the ruling coalition emphasizing stricter regulations on foreign land purchases and increased defense spending [9][10]. Group 3: Public Sentiment - Public opinion appears divided, with some citizens questioning the rationale behind the dissolution and expressing concerns over rising living costs and economic stability [7][8]. - Criticism from within the political sphere highlights fears that frequent elections may detract from addressing long-term issues such as population decline and economic challenges [5][6].