Japan votes for lower house; Abe’s party seen headed for win
TOKYO — Japanese are voting in a general election that will most likely hand Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling coalition a majority in parliament.
Up for grabs Sunday are 465 seats in the more powerful lower house, which chooses the prime minister. Abe dissolved the chamber less than a month ago, apparently judging that the political environment turned in his favour.
Media polls have indicated voters see Abe’s government, despite recent scandals including his own, as a safer choice over an opposition with uncertain track records.
Scare over North Korea’s missile and nuclear development is also seen prompting their conservative choice.