Japan's political landscape is entering a period of significant uncertainty as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi faces mounting speculation about dissolving the House of Representatives at the start of the regular Diet session. For foreign residents, these developments could have implications for policy continuity and economic stability in the coming months. According to NHK, the government plans to convene the regular Diet session on January 23rd, and expectations are growing that Takaichi may call for dissolution of the lower house shortly thereafter. The Prime Minister will make her final decision based on diplomatic schedules and other considerations, but the political maneuvering has already begun in earnest. In an unprecedented move that signals shifting political alliances, the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) leader Yoshihiko Noda met with Komeito leader Natsuo Saito to discuss potential electoral cooperation. According to NHK's reporting, Noda directly appealed for collaboration in the upcoming House of Representatives election, and both leaders agreed to explore closer coordination between their parties. This represents a significant departure from traditional political alignments, as Komeito has historically partnered with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The timing of any potential dissolution has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, particularly regarding its impact on economic policy. Tamaki Yuichiro, leader of the Democratic Party for the People (DPP), has warned that dissolving the Diet at a time when it becomes difficult to pass the next fiscal year's budget would constitute what he termed an "economy-last dissolution," according to NHK. This criticism highlights concerns that political maneuvering could take precedence over pressing economic needs. For expats living in Japan, a Diet dissolution and subsequent general election could affect several areas of daily life. Budget delays resulting from early elections could impact public services, infrastructure projects, and economic stimulus measures. The passage of the annual budget typically occurs by the end of March to align with Japan's fiscal year, which runs from April 1st. Any disruption to this timeline could create administrative complications and delay planned government initiatives. The potential for new coalition arrangements also introduces uncertainty about policy directions. While foreign residents' basic rights and visa statuses are unlikely to face immediate changes, shifts in governing coalitions can influence longer-term policies on immigration, labor markets, taxation, and social services. The CDP-Komeito discussions are particularly noteworthy because they could reshape the post-election political landscape significantly. Political instability can also affect economic confidence and currency markets. Japan's business community generally prefers political stability, and prolonged uncertainty around coalition formation after an election could impact investment decisions and economic planning. For expats working in Japan or managing finances across currencies, monitoring these developments may be prudent. The regular Diet session beginning January 23rd will be crucial for understanding the government's intentions. Prime Minister Takaichi's policy speech and subsequent parliamentary debates will provide clearer signals about timing. Historically, Japanese prime ministers have dissolved the Diet at various points, but doing so before passing the annual budget is relatively unusual and politically risky. Foreign residents should stay informed through reliable news sources as these political developments unfold. While day-to-day life is unlikely to experience immediate disruption, understanding the broader political context helps expats navigate potential policy changes and economic fluctuations. The coming weeks will determine whether Japan faces an early election and what new political alignments might emerge from the resulting campaign.