Japan's Takaichi Pushes Constitutional Reform After Sweeping Electoral Victory

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, riding high on a decisive electoral triumph, has announced her intention to pursue constitutional amendments through national referendum, marking a bold move toward strengthening Japan's institutional framework and military capabilities.

Following her Liberal Democratic Party's commanding victory that secured 310 of 456 lower house seats in February 8 elections, Takaichi declared her determination to "create an environment in which a national referendum on revising the constitution can be held as soon as possible."

Strategic Political Gamble Pays Off

Takaichi's rise represents a remarkable political comeback story. When she became Japan's first female prime minister in October 2025, the LDP was mired in corruption scandals and had lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 15 years. Her decision to call snap elections in January was a calculated risk that has now positioned her to pursue ambitious reforms.

"I believe that the only option is for the people, as sovereign citizens, to decide whether or not Sanae Takaichi should be prime minister," she stated before the election, demonstrating the kind of direct democratic appeal that resonates with voters tired of backroom political maneuvering.

Constitutional Reform: A Market-Friendly Agenda

The proposed amendments focus on two key areas that would enhance Japan's economic competitiveness and regional security posture. First, establishing constitutional recognition of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), which currently operate in legal limbo under the 1946 constitution's pacifist Article 9.

This reform would provide much-needed clarity for international investors and defense contractors, eliminating the legal uncertainties that have hampered Japan's defense industry development and military cooperation agreements.

Second, extending lawmakers' terms during national emergencies would ensure governmental continuity during crises, providing the stable political environment that markets demand during turbulent times.

Strong Parliamentary Support Emerges

Recent surveys reveal unprecedented support for constitutional revision, with 93 percent of newly elected lawmakers backing reform efforts. Even opposition parties show significant support, with the Centrist Reform Alliance registering 58 percent approval.

The JSDF recognition amendment enjoys over 90 percent support among parliamentarians, reflecting growing consensus that Japan must adapt its legal framework to contemporary security challenges, particularly regarding Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Regional Security Implications

Takaichi's November statement that Japan would consider an attack on Taiwan as threatening Japan's survival sent clear signals about her administration's strategic priorities. This position, while provoking predictable outrage from Beijing, demonstrates the kind of principled leadership necessary to maintain regional stability and protect democratic values.

The constitutional amendments would formalize Japan's capacity to act decisively in defense of its interests and those of its democratic allies, moving beyond the passive defensive posture that has constrained Japanese foreign policy for decades.

Timeline and Challenges Ahead

Japan's amendment process requires two-thirds majorities in both parliamentary houses before proceeding to national referendum. While lower house support appears solid, the upper house remains less enthusiastic, with elections not scheduled until 2028.

This timeline may actually benefit the reform effort, allowing Takaichi's administration to build broader public consensus while demonstrating effective governance that justifies expanded constitutional powers.

For a nation that has never successfully amended its constitution, Takaichi's initiative represents more than institutional reform. It signals Japan's readiness to assume greater responsibility for regional security while maintaining the democratic principles and market-oriented policies that have driven its prosperity.