Japan dissolves parliament

The Japanese House of Representatives officially dissolved today, September 28, to prepare for an early election on October 22 at the request of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Mr. Abe did so in the hope that he could use the momentum of increased support while the opposition weakened to continue leading the country for another term, helping his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) maintain its strength. The party currently holds a "super" two-thirds majority.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (4th from left) and Cabinet ministers applaud after the dissolution of the Lower House was announced at the Diet in Tokyo on September 28. Photo: Reuters

After the 9:30 a.m. Government meeting, the document dissolving the House of Representatives was announced at 12 noon (local time) to allow political parties to enter new elections. According to the procedure, the document was submitted to the Emperor for approval before the Chief Cabinet Secretary transmitted it to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Speaker officially announced the decision.

"It will be a tough fight, but it is all about how we will protect Japan, and about the lives and peaceful coexistence of the Japanese people," Mr. Abe told lawmakers.

Some opposition lawmakers boycotted the meeting in protest against Abe, creating a major political vacuum amid escalating tensions with North Korea, Reuters reported.

Prime Minister Abe's personal approval rating has risen sharply to around 50% from 30% in July, partly due to his leadership during the North Korea crisis.

According to Vietnamnet.vn