Japan's Election Gamble: Ishiba's Leadership Test Amid Party Scandal

Japan's new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces a challenging general election as he seeks to stabilize his scandal-plagued party, the LDP. With opinion polls indicating potential seat losses, the election will test Ishiba's leadership amid economic uncertainty and regional tensions.

Japan's general election this Sunday is set to be a pivotal moment for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The newly appointed leader is aiming to solidify his position within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), currently marred by scandal.

Ishiba's decision to call a snap election follows his narrow victory in taking LDP's helm last month. However, opinion polls suggest a volatile electoral environment, with the possibility of the party losing seats to the opposition.

Central to this election are the issues of economic inflation and a scandal involving undocumented funds which have affected public trust. As the LDP strives to maintain its majority, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) appears to be gaining ground, promising increased welfare and free education.

(With inputs from agencies.)