The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) and Komeito agreed on Monday to pursue "higher-level" election cooperation in the upcoming general election, amid expectations of a dissolution of the House of Representatives. CDPJ President Yoshihiko Noda and Komeito Chief Representative Tetsuo Saito met in Tokyo for about 30 minutes, highlighting the alignment of their centrist policies. The agreement aims to strengthen opposition unity against the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
On January 13, 2026, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) and Komeito held talks in Tokyo and agreed to explore "higher-level" election cooperation for the next general election. This comes amid reports that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is considering dissolving the House of Representatives, with plans to do so at the start of the ordinary Diet session on January 23.
CDPJ President Yoshihiko Noda proposed the meeting, where he and Komeito Chief Representative Tetsuo Saito discussed for about 30 minutes. Noda stated, "Our basic centrist policy stances match," seeking cooperation, while Saito replied, "I shall consider it in a forward-looking manner." Both parties aim for a political middle ground and plan to collaborate with other centrist groups.
Initially, Komeito members were cautious about deepening ties with the CDPJ, fearing it would appear too critical of the administration. However, with the election likely in mid-February, turning it into a short campaign, they shifted toward cooperation. Komeito will hold an urgent executive board meeting on Tuesday to discuss practical measures.
After the talks, Noda told reporters, "I want to create a political force that can compete closely with the LDP." He also indicated intentions to work with other opposition parties beyond Komeito. This development could mark a key step in bolstering opposition unity in a landscape favoring the ruling party.
