Sipu Jha
Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Saturday elected Sanae Takaichi as its new leader, making her the most likely candidate to become Japan’s first female prime minister. In a country that continues to struggle with gender equality, the 64-year-old’s victory is historic. Takaichi defeated agriculture minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi, in a runoff vote. She replaces outgoing prime minister Shigeru Ishiba as the LDP tries to regain public trust after suffering major election losses. The party remains Japan’s largest in the lower house, giving her a clear path to the premiership despite a divided opposition. After her victory was announced, Takaichi bowed to fellow lawmakers and thanked her supporters. “I made history for the LDP,” she said. “I’m not feeling joy yet, only the weight of the challenges ahead that I must face with everyone’s help.”A parliamentary vote in mid-October is expected to formally confirm her as prime minister.
Who is Sanae Takaichi
- Takaichi served in key cabinet positions under former prime minister
Shinzo Abe , shaping Japan’s policies on economic resilience and technology security. - A protege of the late conservative leader, Takaichi shares Abe’s nationalist views and his vision of strengthening Japan’s military.
- Takaichi is known for her hard-line stance on China and her regular visits to Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine, a site that honours Japan’s war dead and often angers neighbouring countries.
- Takaichi was criticised for making comments about foreigners and citing unverified reports about crimes in her hometown of Nara.
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