Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan's First Female Prime Minister

Wed Oct 22 2025 01:52:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Sanae Takaichi has made history as Japan's first female prime minister, leading the nation amid economic challenges and political scrutiny. Her conservative views have sparked both hope and skepticism regarding her leadership.

Following a parliamentary vote that saw her secure the position with a majority, Sanae Takaichi has officially become Japan's first female prime minister. Takaichi, a member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), takes on the role during a time of rising economic issues and public dissatisfaction. As she steps into leadership, Takaichi's long-standing conservative stance and historical ties to previous administrations pose questions about her policies and international relations, particularly with the United States and neighboring South Korea.

Sanae Takaichi has been elected Japan's prime minister by parliament, making her the first woman to hold the office.

The 64-year-old won a clear majority on Tuesday - 237 votes in the powerful Lower House and another 125 in the Upper House - as leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

A staunch conservative and admirer of the late former British PM Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi takes over at a challenging economic moment as Japan grapples with rising cost-of-living and a frustrated public.

It's also been an uncertain time for the world's fourth-largest economy. She is the fourth PM in just five years, after her predecessors' terms were cut short by plunging ratings and scandals.

Although she defeated four men to win the LDP race in early October, her path to the top job appeared to be blocked when the LDP's long-time coalition partner, the Komeito party, withdrew support.

But a last-minute deal with another opposition party - the right-leaning Japan Innovation Party (JIP) - saved her. She and the LDP will face voters next in 2028.

Meanwhile, aside from domestic challenges, she faces tricky relationships abroad. South Korea, which had started to mend historically delicate ties with Japan, is wary because of her right-wing politics. Takaichi is expected to navigate international relations with the US's unpredictable administration and their upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump next week, amidst concerns about security treaty value.

At the age of 64, Takaichi is no stranger to Japanese politics, having held various ministerial roles and previously vying for the PM position. She's known for her conservative beliefs, including opposition to same-sex marriage and a desire for traditional gender roles, which have led some, especially young women, to question the significance of her election.

Public sentiment towards her leadership will be critically assessed as Japan continues to face economic hardships, including skyrocketing rice prices.