Sanae Takaichi Elected Japan’s First Woman Prime Minister

Japan made history on October 21, 2025, as Parliament elected ultraconservative Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female Prime Minister. Takaichi, 64, succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, ending a three-month political vacuum following the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) poor showing in the July elections.

Her premiership was secured after a last-minute coalition deal with the Osaka-based Japan Innovation Party (JIP), pulling her governing bloc further to the right. While the alliance ensures a governing majority in Parliament, Takaichi will need to negotiate with other opposition groups to pass legislation, highlighting potential challenges in maintaining a stable government.

Coalition and Cabinet

Takaichi plans to present a Cabinet with allies of LDP kingmaker Taro Aso and others who supported her during the party leadership vote. JIP will initially not hold ministerial positions until the partnership stabilizes. Her Cabinet is expected to reflect hawkish and nationalist policies, emulating the legacy of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, with a focus on military strength, economic reforms, and potential constitutional revisions.

Policy Priorities and Challenges

The new Prime Minister faces immediate pressures, including rising inflation and economic reforms, while preparing for upcoming regional summits and bilateral talks with global leaders like US President Donald Trump. Despite being the first woman to hold the office, Takaichi has shown limited interest in advancing gender equality or diversity policies and maintains conservative positions on issues like male-only imperial succession and opposition to same-sex marriage.

International Response

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi, expressing eagerness to strengthen India-Japan relations. Observers note that Takaichi’s tenure will be closely watched for her ability to deliver on economic and diplomatic goals amid a potentially fragile parliamentary majority.