Overview
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told her cabinet there is no time for a victory lap and pressed ministers to deliver on campaign promises, saying the real work starts now.
- The Ministry of Justice announced an expert panel to examine whether to criminalize the buyers in prostitution and consider tougher penalties, with a first meeting planned by the end of March.
- Election mechanics produced an LDP proportional list shortfall that shifted 14 seats to other parties, aiding figures such as Akira Nagatsuma and Chinami Nishimura and boosting groups including Japan Innovation Party and the National Democratic Party.
- Business federation Keidanren named six vice chairs, including BCG Japan co-lead Reiko Achiike and Veolia Japan chair Yumiko Noda, who are set to take office after its June general meeting.
- Centrist opposition leaders are preparing to step down, with successor selections expected around February 13, as parties regroup after the defeat.