Japan PM to call snap election seeking stronger mandate

The country's first woman leader, Takaichi is banking on her high poll numbers to lead the unpopular ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to victory. After signalling her intentions to party officials last week, Takaichi will lay out her plans for a vote expected as early as February 8 during a press conference Monday, the Yomiuri and other media outlets reported. The LDP has governed Japan almost uninterrupted for decades, albeit with frequent leader changes. Takaichi was appointed prime minister...