Japan's political landscape is undergoing significant changes as Prime Minister Takaichi prepares to dissolve the House of Representatives on January 19, 2026, triggering a snap general election. The announcement comes alongside the retirement of several prominent political figures, signaling a generational shift in Japanese governance that could affect policy directions important to foreign residents. According to NHK, Prime Minister Takaichi will hold a press conference on January 19 to formally announce her intention to dissolve the lower house of parliament. This decision sets the stage for a general election that will test the newly formed coalition government between the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin). All major political parties are now accelerating their election preparations, including finalizing policy platforms and selecting candidates. Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara explained the rationale behind the election timing, stating that the LDP-Ishin coalition government needs to seek public approval for its new economic, fiscal, and security policies. This represents a significant political development, as the coalition arrangement between these two parties is relatively new and will face its first major electoral test. The outcome could influence Japan's approach to economic reforms, defense spending, and international relations—all areas that impact the expatriate community. For foreign residents, government stability and policy continuity are particularly important for issues such as visa regulations, taxation, healthcare access, and international business operations. A change in the parliamentary majority could potentially lead to shifts in these areas, though major policy changes affecting foreign residents typically require substantial parliamentary processes. In a surprising development, former Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide announced his retirement from politics on January 17. Speaking to reporters in his home constituency of Yokohama, Suga stated he wishes to "make way for the next generation." The 76-year-old served as prime minister from September 2020 to October 2021 and has been a dominant figure in Japanese politics for decades. His departure marks the end of an era for the LDP's traditional power structure. Additionally, former LDP General Council Chairman Endo announced his retirement at a press conference in Yamagata City on the same day. These announcements by senior politicians suggest a broader generational transition within Japan's ruling party, potentially opening opportunities for younger politicians with different perspectives on issues such as immigration, digital transformation, and international cooperation. Controversially, LDP leadership has decided to grant official party endorsement to several lawmakers and former lawmakers who were implicated in political funding reporting irregularities, according to NHK. These candidates will be permitted to run in single-seat constituencies and will also be eligible for dual candidacy in the proportional representation system. This decision has drawn criticism from opposition parties and could become a significant campaign issue. The dual candidacy system allows candidates to run simultaneously in a geographic constituency and on their party's proportional representation list, providing a safety net if they lose in their district. The LDP's decision to extend this option to politicians involved in funding scandals may influence public perception of the party's commitment to political reform. For expatriates living in Japan, this election period may bring increased political activity and campaigning in local areas. While foreign residents without Japanese citizenship cannot vote in national elections, the resulting government composition will affect policies on foreign worker programs, business regulations, and Japan's international relationships. The election date has not yet been officially announced, but Japanese law requires elections to be held within 40 days of the dissolution of the House of Representatives. Foreign residents should expect the campaign period to dominate news coverage throughout late January and February 2026, with the new government taking shape shortly thereafter.