Corruption scandals, an economic crisis and widespread leader dissatisfaction have dogged the party yet it remains in contention. All eyes are now on whether it will secure a majority

Bruised by months of financial scandals, a cost-of-living crisis and unpopular leaders, some might be forgiven for expecting to see the end of Japan’s beleaguered ruling Liberal Democratic party (LDP), which has been in office for most of the past seven decades.

The election on 27 October will take place a year earlier than many had expected, following the surprise resignation of the former prime minister, Fumio Kishida, following record low approval ratings and public anger over his party’s apparent addiction to in “money politics”.