FOCUS: With high popularity, Japan PM Takaichi to weigh timing for snap election

TOKYO - With her Cabinet maintaining high popularity since its launch a few months ago, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to weigh the timing for dissolving the House of Representatives for a snap election in 2026.

Political analysts say high Cabinet approval ratings are a precondition for Takaichi, who became Japan's first female prime minister on Oct. 21, to consider dissolving the lower chamber, but warn that diplomatic and economic risks could undermine public support.