Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s ruling alliance fell short in Japan’s 248-seat Upper House election, securing just 46 seats, four shy of the majority needed to retain control.

This follows their earlier loss in the Lower House, marking the first time since 1955 the LDP lacks control in both chambers.

Despite the setback, Ishiba vowed to stay on, but faces internal pressure amid rising public frustration over inflation and stalled reforms. The LDP won 38 seats, remaining the largest party.

Populist and opposition parties, including the far-right Sanseito and CDPJ, gained ground, though too fragmented to form a united front. Xenophobic rhetoric during the campaign sparked protests, dividing voters between stability and change.