Sanae Takaichi has been elected Japan's prime minister by parliament, marking a watershed moment as she becomes the first woman to hold this prominent position.
Winning a decisive majority with 237 votes in the Lower House and an additional 125 in the Upper House, Takaichi assumes leadership in challenging economic times, with the nation facing a rising cost of living and public dissatisfaction.
At 64, Takaichi is no stranger to Japanese politics. Known for her conservative leanings and admiration for former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, she steps into office amidst the backdrop of Japan's fourth change in prime minister within five years, a pattern driven by previous leaders’ dwindling popularity and controversies.
Despite her recent electoral victory over four male candidates within her party, her path to premiership was rocky when her coalition partner withdrew support. Fortunately, a strategic alliance with the Japan Innovation Party brought her the necessary votes to succeed.
As Takaichi embarks on her leadership journey, she must navigate both domestic concerns, such as inflation and public trust, and fraught international relations, particularly with South Korea and the United States. Her upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump could be pivotal, especially as the two nations address tariff agreements and defense expenses.
Critics have expressed skepticism about Takaichi’s potential impact on women's rights, noting her traditionalist views, including opposition to same-sex marriage and reluctance towards modernizing women's roles in society. Young women, like 21-year-old student Ayda Ogura, have voiced concerns that her premiership may uphold the very patriarchal standards it is being hailed as breaking.
Despite these challenges, Takaichi's election is viewed with cautious optimism by some, as recent political tumult prompts a desire within the Liberal Democratic Party to regain the confidence of its voters and address the economic pressures affecting daily lives in Japan.
