Sanae Takaichi: Japan's New 'Iron Lady' Set for Historic Leadership

Fri Oct 10 2025 17:37:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Sanae Takaichi, the newly elected leader of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, aims to become the country's first female prime minister, drawing parallels with the UK's former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Sanae Takaichi, a prominent figure in Japanese politics and the new leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is on track to become Japan's first female prime minister. A staunch conservative with a diverse background, including a former career as a TV host and heavy metal drummer, Takaichi has ambitious plans to restore voter trust in the LDP amidst a rise in far-right sentiment. She aims to address significant societal issues such as caregiving, women's health, and economic recovery, all while reviving the economic policies of her mentor, the late Shinzo Abe.

Respected figure: Baroness Margaret Thatcher. Personal goal: to become Japan's Iron Lady.

After two failed attempts, Sanae Takaichi finally achieved her long-held ambition. The 64-year-old was elected leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on its 70th anniversary - putting her on course to become the country's first female prime minister.

A former government minister and TV host, and once a drummer in a heavy metal band, she will now face the challenge of leading a party still struggling to regain voter trust after scandals, while responding to a rising far right.

Born in Nara Prefecture in 1961, Takaichi's upbringing was far removed from politics. Once an avid heavy metal drummer, she was famous for carrying multiple sticks because of her energetic performances. Before entering politics, she briefly worked as a television host, finding her political inspiration during the 1980s US-Japan trade friction.

Takaichi ran her first parliamentary election in 1992 as an independent but lost, only to win a year later and join the LDP in 1996. Throughout her career, she has held senior roles including minister for internal affairs and communications.

In 2021, she first ran for LDP leadership but lost. After persistent efforts, she finally secured victory in 2025, making her intentions clear: My goal is to become the Iron Lady.”

While she holds conservative views, including opposition to same-sex marriage and traditional roles for women, Takaichi has begun to soften her stance by supporting policies beneficial to families and women’s health. She is also keen to revive "Abenomics" policies of public spending and economic recovery, as the LDP seeks to regain the trust of its long-time conservative base.

Confirming her position as the party's leader, Takaichi stated, The LDP must change for the sake of Japan's present and future. Parliament is expected to confirm her as prime minister on October 15.