Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi has become the first female Prime Minister of Japan and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), marking a historic milestone in Japanese politics.

Who is she?

• Born on March 7, 1961, in Nara Prefecture, Japan.
  
• Graduated from Kobe University; worked as a legislative aide and in broadcasting before entering national politics.
  
• First elected to the House of Representatives in 1993; has held multiple ministerial posts, including Minister for Internal Affairs & Communications.

How did she rise to power?

• On October 4, 2025, she won the LDP leadership race, becoming the party’s first female president.
  
• On October 21, 2025, she was elected Prime Minister by the Japanese Diet.
  
• She formed a coalition with the Japan Innovation Party after Komeito exited the ruling alliance.

What are her political views and priorities?

Economic and security policy

• Supports strong government investment in key industries like defense and semiconductors.
  
• Advocates for constitutional reform, particularly Article 9, to expand Japan’s military capabilities.

Social policy and values

• Opposes same-sex marriage and separate surnames for married couples.
  
• Against allowing women to ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne.
  
• Nationalist views; regularly visits the controversial Yasukuni Shrine.

Why is her election significant?

• First woman to lead Japan, breaking a major gender barrier in politics.
  
• Represents a conservative shift within the ruling party.
  
• Critics question whether her leadership will lead to actual progress in gender equality.

What challenges lie ahead?

• Her government holds a slim majority, making early elections a possibility.
  
• Faces economic hurdles including inflation, low growth, and public debt.
  
• Regional tensions may rise due to her nationalist positions.
  
• Cabinet includes few women, limiting visible progress on gender reform.

TL;DR

Sanae Takaichi is Japan’s first female Prime Minister and head of the LDP. Known for her conservative views, she champions defense investment and traditional values. Though her election is groundbreaking, her leadership faces major policy and political tests, with little sign of progressive change on gender issues.

FAQ

Q: When did Takaichi become Prime Minister?

A: October 21, 2025.

Q: Which party does she lead?

A: The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Q: Does she support changing Japan’s constitution?

A: Yes, she wants to revise Article 9 to expand military capabilities.

Q: Is she promoting gender equality?

A: Not significantly—her Cabinet includes few women, and she holds traditional views on gender roles.

Q: What’s her view on same-sex marriage?

A: She opposes it.