Tokyo, 27 October 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Voters in Japan are heading to the polls on Sunday for a snap election to the lower house of parliament, as new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba seeks to secure a majority for his administration.

Recent polls suggest that Ishiba's ruling coalition, made up of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior coalition partner Komeito, may struggle to reach the 233 seats needed for a majority.

The LDP, which has dominated Japanese politics for decades, is currently grappling with a corruption scandal that has shaken public confidence.

Polling stations are due to close at 8 pm (1100 GMT) and early trend reports from Japanese media are expected soon after.

Ishiba only took office on October 1, succeeding Fumio Kishida, and is hoping to secure a mandate for his administration from voters.

If Ishiba's coalition fails to secure a majority, he will need to seek additional coalition partners, potentially leading to a minority government.

Such a scenario could weaken his leadership, with speculation swirling that he might resign if the election results do not favour him.

However, many observers believe it is unlikely that the fragmented opposition would be able to unite and form a viable coalition government.

Photo: MIA archive