Japanese voters head to the polls in five constituencies on Sunday, elections that could sway Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision on whether to call a general election in the coming months.
The premier’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party is fighting to keep the three seats it previously held of the five. Managing to take a fourth would further fuel speculation that Kishida may opt for a national election after hosting the Group of Seven summit in Hiroshima from May 19-21.
The timing of the general election may also play into monetary policy, as the Bank of Japan would face pressure to avoid any changes that could disrupt the markets during campaigning.
