Ishiba action puts Japan in poll mode

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba dissolved the lower house of parliament on Wednesday, a move seen by officials and analysts as a fast-tracked step toward a general election.

As House of Representatives Speaker Fukushiro Nukaga announced the dissolution, lawmakers shouted the traditional rallying cry of banzai.

"I've decided to dissolve the chamber to seek a direct judgment from the public because it is critical that we continue to run the government to protect Japan and its people," Ishiba was quoted by Kyodo News as saying on Wednesday.