- The 64-year-old secured 237 votes in the Lower House and 125 in the Upper House
- She replaced Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned after midterm losses
- Takaichi is expected to take a strong approach to security and diplomacy
Sanae Takaichi was elected Prime Minister of Japan on Monday, becoming the first woman in the nation’s history to hold the position.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the 64-year-old secured 237 votes in the Lower House and 125 in the Upper House after winning the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
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Takaichi, a conservative and admirer of Margaret Thatcher, takes office amid major domestic and global challenges. She replaces Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned after midterm losses, becoming Japan’s fourth prime minister in five years.
Her leadership bid appeared in jeopardy after the LDP’s coalition partner, Komeito, withdrew its support. However, a last-minute agreement with the opposition Japan Innovation Party (JIP), also known as Ishin, enabled her to secure the votes needed to form a government. The next general election is scheduled for 2028.
Takaichi has been criticized for her conservative views, including opposing same-sex marriage and keeping maiden names for married women. Though Japan’s first female leader, her stance raises questions about progress on gender equality.
She has proposed expanding healthcare services for women and offering more support for domestic care workers. Nonetheless, some young voters and women’s rights advocates have expressed skepticism about her commitment to structural reforms.
Takaichi is expected to take a strong approach on security and diplomacy. Her upcoming meeting with U.S. President Trump will test U.S.–Japan ties, while her nationalist views risk straining relations with South Korea and China.
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