Former members of the Liberal Democratic Party's recently disbanded factions have begun informal meetings following the party's landslide victory in the February 8, 2026, Lower House election, raising prospects of a faction comeback amid ongoing internal shifts under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) disbanded its traditional factions in late 2025 amid political funding scandals, but this has not quelled underlying group loyalties. After the LDP's decisive win in the February 8, 2026, Lower House election—which solidified Takaichi's position as party president and prime minister—former faction members have started low-key gatherings.
Prominent figures associated with these activities include Sanae Takaichi (former Abe faction conservative), Taro Aso, Toshimitsu Motegi, Toshihiro Nikai, and others linked to past factions under Shinzo Abe and Fumio Kishida. These meetings suggest factions may reemerge informally, potentially influencing future party decisions and conservative dynamics.
The trend, reported by The Japan Times, reflects natural regrouping after electoral success, though it could complicate Takaichi's leadership as she navigates post-election priorities.