Tokyo: The opposition bloc in Japan could potentially elect its candidate as the country's new prime minister following the collapse of the ruling coalition. The political shake-up occurred when Komeito ended its alliance with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) after more than 25 years.

According to Anadolu Agency, Tetsuo Saito, leader of the Komeito party, informed newly elected LDP President Sanae Takaichi of the decision to dissolve the alliance, which had been in place since 1999. Takaichi, recently elected as the first female president of the LDP, now faces uncertainty in her prospects of becoming Japan's first female prime minister. The LDP's reliance on Komeito's support had grown crucial over the years due to shifts in voter support.

Although the coalition did not secure a parliamentary majority in the last general elections, the alliance was only 12 seats short of a majority in the 465-member lower house. The LDP's current holding stands at 191 seats, down from 256, while Komeito has 24 seats after losing several, including that of its chief, Keiichi Ishii. Incumbent Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba leads a minority government, relying on issue-by-issue support from opposition parties to pass government bills.

The split with Komeito follows disagreements over Takaichi's conservative positions on issues like immigration, historical temples, and foreign relations, particularly with China and South Korea. Komeito also sought assurances on addressing a political funds scandal that has embroiled the LDP, with several lawmakers under investigation for underreporting fundraising revenues.

In light of Komeito's announcement, opposition parties are exploring the formation of a new coalition. Tamakai Yuichiro of the Democratic Party for the People (DPFP) has expressed readiness to serve as prime minister. The main opposition, Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), has proposed his name, potentially leading a coalition with the DPFP and Ishin Party, totaling 213 lawmakers.

The fragmented political landscape could lead to a second-round vote in the premier election, as no party holds the required 233 lawmakers for a majority. A successful opposition candidate would mark the first LDP ouster since 2012. Internal LDP discussions have emerged about retaining power, with suggestions for Ishiba to continue as prime minister while Takaichi remains party president to satisfy Komeito's preference for a moderate leader.

Amid the political turmoil, China's Foreign Ministry has protested against Takaichi's accusations of human rights violations in Inner Mongolia, adding international pressure to Japan's domestic political crisis. Business leaders in Japan have expressed concerns over a potential power vacuum during this period of instability.