Sanae Takaichi becomes the first female prime minister of Japan, creating history. Parliament elected the 64-year-old with a powerful majority. As leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), she received 125 votes in the Upper House and 237 votes in the Lower House. Takaichi, a well-known liberal and Margaret Thatcher supporter, takes office at a period of financial crisis and increased living costs.
The road to the top was not easy for Takaichi. In the contest for LDP leadership, she defeated four male opponents. At first, Komeito, the coalition partner of the LDP, withdrew its support. She was elected thanks to a last-minute agreement with the Japan Innovation Party. Takaichi takes over an administration that has been shaken by scandals and lacking public support. She also has to handle sensitive international relations. Careful diplomacy is necessary to resolve tensions with China and South Korea. She will shortly meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss defense and trade-related matters.
A few people doubt the historic victory’s importance for the rights of women. Takaichi has strong orthodox beliefs and is against same-sex marriage as well as some changes for married women. She has suggested recognizing domestic helpers and improving healthcare for women. Analysts point out that following primary defeats and scandals, she now has the responsibility of rebuilding public confidence in the LDP. A lack of food, rising prices, and Japan’s massive debt are still major domestic concerns. According to reports, she could make another historic move for women by appointing Satsuki Katayama as finance minister. The markets react to her win with moderate optimism. Since Takaichi’s appointment as leader is historic for Japanese politics, her early term will be put to the test by the nation’s economic difficulties and her conservative views.
