Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is reportedly preparing for her first cabinet reshuffle since taking office last October. The move, anticipated for mid- or late September, aims to strengthen her coalition government by winning over voters, rewarding Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmakers, and securing the backing of junior coalition partner Ishin no Kai.

According to reports from Kyodo News and other Japanese media citing government and ruling party sources, the timing of the reshuffle will likely follow the adoption of a tax reform package planned for mid-September. This package includes a consumption tax cut for food. Additionally, Takaichi is expected to attend a United Nations General Assembly session in the United States in late September.

An LDP source indicated, “A personnel reshuffle is likely after [the adoption of] the tax system reform package.” If confirmed, this reshuffle would coincide with Takaichi’s potential bid for another term as LDP president in the 2027 party leadership election.

Analysts suggest that the cabinet reshuffle could help the government regain public support amid falling poll numbers and solidify the coalition ahead of upcoming political challenges.

Sources