02:18
Japanese media on October 17 intensely focused on domestic political developments. Early reports indicated Nippon Ishin no Kai leader Yoshimura had explicitly stated a reduction in Diet members as an absolute condition for a coalition with the LDP. By late morning, the media prominently reported significant progress in coalition talks between the LDP and Nippon Ishin, with Ishin's demand for Diet member cuts accepted by the LDP. Early afternoon reports continued to highlight this progress, with Takaichi now likely to be chosen as Prime Minister. Throughout the day, stories also covered the passing of former Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama at 101.