Sanae Takaichi Elected as Japan's First Female Prime Minister

On October 21, 2025, Sanae Takaichi was elected by Japan’s Parliament as the country’s first female Prime Minister, following a coalition agreement with a new partner that has right-wing leanings.

Political Context and Election

• Ms. Takaichi succeeded Shigeru Ishiba, ending a political vacuum after a poor election performance by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in July.
• She won 237 votes in the lower house, over Yoshikoko Noda's 149 votes.
• The LDP's alliance with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) was crucial, given the fragmented opposition.

Challenges and Coalition Dynamics

• The coalition is short of a majority in both parliamentary houses, necessitating alliances with other opposition groups.
• Ms. Takaichi emphasized the importance of political stability for economic and diplomatic measures at a signing ceremony on October 20, 2025.
• The JIP, led by Osaka Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura, will not initially hold ministerial posts.

Policy Stance and Leadership Style

• Ms. Takaichi has a hawkish and nationalistic policy orientation, breaking with the more centrist Komeito party.
• Her policy priorities include economic measures, engaging with U.S. President Donald Trump, and participating in regional summits.
• She is not prioritizing gender equality or diversity, maintaining traditional views on male-only imperial succession and opposing same-sex marriage.

Background and Political Influence

• Ms. Takaichi is influenced by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and is expected to follow his policies on military strengthening and constitutional revision.
• Her political career began in 1993, with key roles in economic security and internal affairs ministries.
• She has faced criticism over her views on Japan’s wartime history and controversial visits to the Yasukuni Shrine.

Challenges Ahead

• Ms. Takaichi's government may face instability due to its tenuous parliamentary majority.
• The departure of Komeito was partly due to LDP's handling of scandals and Ms. Takaichi’s controversial views.