Kishida goes to the parliamentary session with a packed and divisive agenda

Controversial debates over increased defense spending, policies targeting children and extending the life of nuclear reactors are expected to mark discussions between – and within – the ruling parties and the opposition in the next session of parliament starting Monday.

The regular 150-day Diet session is expected to be difficult for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, whose plea for higher taxes to pay for a massive increase in defense spending has divided his party and questioned his leadership.

With a view to the municipal elections in April, all parties will also use the Diet session to distinguish themselves in the eyes of voters.