Komeito Secretary-General Makoto Nishida said the party may back Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan candidates in future elections following its departure from the ruling coalition with the Liberal Democratic Party. The split stemmed partly from disagreements over political donation regulations. Nishida expressed shock at new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's policy address.
Komeito left its ruling coalition with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) earlier this month. The departure followed Sanae Takaichi's election as LDP president on October 4, driven partly by discord over regulations on political donations from corporations and organizations.
In a Sunday television broadcast, Komeito Secretary-General Makoto Nishida said, "It could be possible" for the party to endorse Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) members in elections, emphasizing that candidates should be evaluated based on personal qualities.
Nishida expressed being "shocked" by Prime Minister Takaichi's first policy address in parliament on Friday, noting it made no mention of money in politics. Takaichi assumed office as prime minister and formed her Cabinet last Tuesday.
After Komeito's exit, the LDP established a new coalition with the Japan Innovation Party, also known as Nippon Ishin no Kai. Nishida indicated that Komeito is prepared to question the LDP on inflation measures, social security reform, and policies toward foreigners during question-and-answer sessions starting November 4 over Takaichi's address.
This development could signal shifts in Japan's political landscape.