Japan’s Komeito leader Saito reportedly expressed intention to withdraw from coalition

According to reports, Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito met with LDP president Sanae Takaichi this afternoon to express his party’s intention to withdraw from the ruling coalition. The decision stems from ongoing disagreements over how to address issues related to politics and money. If confirmed, this would mark the end of a coalition that has remained intact since 1999.

So, what comes next? At present, there is no straightforward path for Takaichi to assume the role of prime minister, which offers some temporary relief for the Japanese yen. However, the heightened political uncertainty could lead to further complications, including a potential delay of the extraordinary Diet session, currently scheduled to begin on October 21.