Ruling Bloc Loses Grip on Upper House Control

Jul 21, 2025 | News On Japan

TOKYO - The results of the House of Councillors election held on July 20th have been finalized, with the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito winning a combined total of 47 seats, falling short of the 50 needed for a majority in the upper chamber.

The LDP secured 39 seats while Komeito won 8. Together, the coalition failed to reach the benchmark of 50 seats, resulting in the ruling bloc losing its majority in the House of Councillors. In the 32 single-member districts nationwide, the LDP was defeated in 18, winning only 14—a disappointing outcome.

Among opposition parties, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, the largest opposition group, was unable to expand its presence, remaining at 22 seats. However, the Democratic Party for the People saw significant gains, increasing its seat count more than fourfold from 4 to 17. Similarly, Sanseito surged from 1 seat to 14.

Despite the loss of the upper house majority, Prime Minister Ishiba has expressed his intention to remain in office. He is scheduled to hold a press conference on the afternoon of July 21st to outline his administration’s future direction.

Source: TBS

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