The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is considering postponing its leadership election scheduled for February due to the possibility of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolving the House of Representatives for a snap general election, sources said on Tuesday.
If the all-important lower chamber of the Diet were dissolved at the start of the ordinary session to be convened on Jan. 23, the SDP leadership election would likely overlap with the possible snap election.
The SDP also plans to put off its party convention planned for March, where a new leader would be due to officially take office, according to party officials.
In December, the SDP decided to begin the official campaign period for its leadership race on Jan. 23 and hold the vote on Feb. 7 and 8, with the votes to be counted on Feb. 9.
Meanwhile, the possible Lower House election may be held on Feb. 8 or Feb. 15.
SDP leader Mizuho Fukushima has expressed her intention to run in the party¡¯s leadership election. Deputy leaders LaSalle Ishii and Yuko Otsubaki may also run.
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