Election setback for new Japanese PM Ishiba

Japan's new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, was facing a major electoral setback on Sunday as projections indicated his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) - which has governed almost without interruption for decades - could lose its majority in the lower house.

Ishiba called the snap poll for the House of Representatives soon after becoming LDP party leader less than a month ago, but the LDP appears to have suffered as a result, according to exit polls conducted by Japanese media.

The LDP has been shaken by a party donation scandal, and pre-election surveys had already suggested that the coalition might struggle to achieve the 233 seats required for a majority.

It is still unclear whether the LDP will be able to secure a majority together with its smaller coalition partner Komeito.

If Ishiba's coalition fails to secure a majority, he will need to seek additional coalition partners, or lead a minority government.

Ishiba, 67, called the verdict of the voters a harsh one, in remarks broadcast on television. He said the vote should be accepted with humility.

Ishiba hinted that he would be willing to work with the opposition on certain issues if necessary.

The largest opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, led by former prime minister Yoshihiko Noda, has reportedly made significant gains.

However, many observers believe it is unlikely that the fragmented opposition will be able to unite and form a viable coalition government.

Ishiba's policies include strengthening Japan's defence forces in the face of China's growing power in the region and the threats posed by North Korea's missile and nuclear programmes.

He also promised to support rural areas of the country that are suffering from the effects of an ageing population.