Japan is on the verge of appointing its first-ever female prime minister as Sanae Takaichi, a hardline conservative known for her nationalistic and security-driven politics, prepares to take charge amid a period of political and economic turbulence.
The 64-year-old Takaichi - a former TV newscaster who transitioned into politics - secured victory on Saturday in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) leadership election, defeating four male contenders. It was her third attempt at the party's top job.
With outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru
Ishiba stepping down after less than a year in power following heavy parliamentary losses that cost the LDP its coalition majority, Takaichi is expected to formally assume office later this month. Her rise will make her Japan's fourth prime minister in five years, highlighting a period of political volatility.A nationalist by ideology, Takaichi is expected to push Japan's politics further to the right. While she supports maintaining a close defense partnership with the United States, she champions a "Japan First" policy that prioritizes Tokyo's national interests above foreign influence. She has previously criticized Japan's trade negotiations with Washington, claiming they were unequal.
Takaichi's leadership comes at a sensitive geopolitical moment. The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing growing tensions, driven by China's rise, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and global shifts in U.S. policy. Many Japanese officials are wary that instability in the region could embolden Beijing to move on Taiwan, potentially drawing Japan into conflict. Her diplomatic skills may face an early test, as Donald Trump is expected to visit Japan later this month during the APEC summit
in South KoreaThe LDP leadership election unfolded in two rounds, involving both parliamentary and grassroots party votes. After her win, Takaichi pledged to restore confidence in the party, saying, “The real work starts now. We will rebuild the Liberal Democratic Party into one that turns people’s worries into hope.”
Although Ishiba will remain in office until parliament confirms his successor — likely on October 14 — Takaichi’s victory puts her in pole position. Despite the LDP’s weakened parliamentary position, opposition parties have yet to rally around a single candidate, making her path to becoming prime minister highly probable.