Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi was elected Japan’s 104th Prime Minister on October 21, 2025, during an extraordinary parliamentary session in Tokyo.
She secured 237 votes in the Lower House and 125 in the Upper House, surpassing the majority threshold.
Her election follows the resignation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba due to his poor performance in the 2024 elections.
Takaichi's coalition with the Japan Innovation Party helped her win, despite the Komeito party’s exit from the LDP coalition.

A 64-year-old ultraconservative and protégé of Shinzo Abe, Takaichi is known for her support of "Abenomics" and a hawkish stance on defense.
She has held key roles, including Minister for Economic Security and Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications.
Takaichi is a fan of Margaret Thatcher and has a reputation for being tough on national security and traditional social issues.

She plans to appoint Satsuki Katayama as Finance Minister and Kimi Onoda as Economic Security Minister.
Takaichi aims to revive Japan’s economy through fiscal stimulus and a strong defense policy.
Her government will focus on Abenomics, military strengthening, and tougher stances on immigration and China.

Supporters see Takaichi’s election as a significant step for gender equality, while critics, like feminist author Chizuko Ueno, argue her conservative stance limits progress for women’s rights.
Markets reacted positively, with Japan’s Nikkei hitting record highs amid anticipation of economic reforms.

Takaichi’s leadership will be tested by economic stagnation, rising inflation, and international tensions, particularly with China and South Korea.
Her government will also need to navigate a fragile coalition and potential snap elections.