Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister Amid Political Shifts

Tokyo — Japan’s parliament has elected Sanae Takaichi as the nation’s first female prime minister, marking a historic moment in a country where political leadership has long been dominated by men.

Takaichi, a veteran lawmaker known for her conservative views, succeeds Shigeru Ishiba following the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) recent electoral setbacks. Her leadership begins under a fragile alliance with the Japan Innovation Party, after the LDP’s split with its longtime partner Komeito. Analysts warn that the coalition’s lack of a clear majority could make her government vulnerable to instability.

In her first remarks as prime minister, Takaichi pledged to strengthen Japan’s economy and national security, emphasizing the importance of the Japan–U.S. alliance. She is preparing to host U.S. President Donald Trump next week, a meeting expected to focus on regional security and economic cooperation.

While her election is seen as a breakthrough for women in Japanese politics, Takaichi has faced criticism for opposing reforms on gender equality, including separate surnames for married couples and same-sex marriage. Activists argue that her policies could slow progress on diversity and minority rights, though supporters view her rise as a symbolic step forward.

Takaichi’s government faces immediate challenges: rising living costs, strained relations with China and South Korea, and the need to restore public confidence after years of political stagnation. A close ally of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, she is expected to continue his policies of economic revitalization and military strengthening.

International reactions have been swift. South Korea’s president expressed hope for improved ties, while the European Union congratulated Takaichi on her historic achievement. China, meanwhile, urged Japan to remain cautious on sensitive issues such as Taiwan and wartime history.

As Takaichi prepares for her first policy speech and upcoming regional summits, her ability to balance domestic expectations with international diplomacy will define the early days of her leadership.