Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the nation's first female leader who assumed office on October 21, 2025, announced on January 19, 2026, her intent to dissolve parliament and call a snap general election for February 8, 2026. This decision, coming just three months into her premiership, aims to secure a stronger public mandate for her ambitious policy agenda. Takaichi's agenda includes "proactive" fiscal spending and a boost to the defense budget. The ruling coalition, comprising Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), currently holds a slim majority in the lower house of parliament but is a minority in the upper chamber. Takaichi is reportedly gambling on her high personal approval ratings to strengthen her government's parliamentary position, even as the LDP itself faces flagging popularity. Opposition parties have voiced concerns, with the Constitutional Democratic Party and former LDP coalition partner Komeito preparing to challenge her. Critics argue that an early election risks delaying the passage of Japan's fiscal 2026 budget and the implementation of crucial price relief measures. Sanae Takaichi is recognized as a staunch conservative with a hawkish stance on security and foreign policy, particularly concerning relations with China, which has led to diplomatic tensions during her short tenure. Her leadership style, often compared to Margaret Thatcher, emphasizes resolve and progress. Credible sources like The Hindu, The Japan Times, Xinhua, and TIME corroborate this story, confirming Takaichi's position as Prime Minister and her intention to call a snap election, aligning with the real-time context of January 2026 provided.