Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed her strong intention to pursue responsible fiscal expansion on the 8th, as her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) secured a decisive victory.

Prime Minister Takaichi checks election results at LDP headquarters [AP Yonhap News file photo. Reproduction and database prohibited]

Responding to NHK's interview on the night of the 8th, with the LDP confirmed to have secured an absolute majority of the 465 seats in the House of Representatives, Prime Minister Takaichi stated, "What I truly wanted to be judged on was responsible fiscal expansion with a significant shift in economic and fiscal policy." She added, "In particular, we will steadily promote investment in crisis management and investment in growth."

The LDP's manifesto for this election also included 'fiscal expansion'.

Regarding the cabinet members for the second Takaichi administration, which is expected to be launched soon, she commented, "I believe the current cabinet members are a good team." She continued, "Since everyone is working very hard and delivering results, I have no intention of changing them."

However, she added that if the coalition partner, Nippon Ishin no Kai, were to nominate cabinet candidates, "that would be something to consider."

Regarding the pledge to reduce the consumption tax rate on food, she said, "We want to accelerate discussions."

Concerning the situation where the ruling party has an overwhelming majority in the House of Representatives following this general election, but the House of Councillors remains in a situation where the ruling party is the minority, Prime Minister Takaichi appealed, "We call on the opposition parties to cooperate where agreement can be reached."

After the exit poll results predicting a landslide victory were released, Prime Minister Takaichi moved to the LDP headquarters to spend time with party officials.