Japan Election Enters Final Two Hours
Voters to Decide Fate of Fumio Kishida's Government
Close Race Expected, with Eyes on Constitutional Revision
The final two hours of voting are underway in Japan's general election, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's ruling coalition facing a tough challenge from opposition parties.
The election is widely seen as a referendum on Kishida's leadership, and the outcome could have major implications for Japan's political landscape.
Kishida's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is seeking to maintain its majority in the lower house of parliament, the House of Representatives.
However, the LDP is facing a strong challenge from the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ).
The CDPJ has pledged to raise the minimum wage, increase social welfare spending, and reduce the cost of living.
Another key issue in the election is constitutional revision.
The LDP is seeking to amend the constitution to allow the government to increase defense spending.
The CDPJ opposes the constitutional amendment, arguing that it would undermine Japan's pacifist constitution.
The election is expected to be close, with both the LDP and the CDPJ likely to win around 200 seats in the 465-member House of Representatives.
If the LDP loses its majority, it could be forced to form a coalition government with other parties.
The election results are due to be announced later tonight.