An Election Is Not a Vent for Discontent

 The Second Takaichi Cabinet—what some are calling “Takaichi 2.0”—has begun.
With every minister reappointed, the message was unmistakable: continuity, confidence, and freedom from factional compromise.

 

The images of the Prime Minister visiting each parliamentary group were striking. Her expression was confident. The press conference was clear in language and clear in meaning, delivered in a soft and composed tone that left a favorable impression.

The election itself seemed to ask a simple question: “Am I the right person to remain Prime Minister?”
It may have been a straightforward question, but it was an important one. Winning an absolute and stable majority was likely the intended outcome—and it was achieved.

It is said that during this general election, the Liberal Democratic Party refrained from attacking other parties. Instead of speeches that diminish opponents—“Is this really acceptable?”—the focus appeared to be on articulating what they themselves aimed to accomplish.

What can we do?
What are we prepared to take responsibility for?

Without answering those questions, no campaign can succeed. Merely declaring that others are wrong does not expand support. That simple truth seemed to be reaffirmed in this election.

It was, in many ways, a revelation: an election is not a vent for dissatisfaction.

As for myself, I cannot help but ask whether continuing my usual pattern of voting was the right choice.

Still, a result is a result. For now, there is little to do but place expectations on this cabinet. I cannot yet specify what those expectations are. Yet observing the administration quickly propose various policies, one can at least say that it appears willing to act.

At the same time, something else caught my attention. In the footage of meetings with other parliamentary groups, the expressions of centrist politicians seemed tense—perhaps even unsettled.

If they fail to adjust their course, they risk losing their presence as a constructive opposition.

When a governing party is strong, the role of a healthy opposition becomes even more essential.