Sanae Takaichi becomes Japan’s first female prime minister amid political uncertainty

Japan has appointed its first woman prime minister, marking a historic political shift in a country long dominated by male leadership. Lawmakers elected Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday, ending a three-month leadership gap following the resignation of former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba.

Takaichi, a veteran member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is known for her socially conservative views, including support for male-only imperial succession and opposition to same-sex marriage. While she has pledged to expand women’s participation in government, her initial Cabinet lineup includes just two female ministers.

Her appointment comes as the LDP forms a coalition with the right-leaning Japan Innovation Party. Despite the alliance, the partnership does not command a full majority in either chamber of parliament, creating uncertainty over the government’s ability to pass legislation.

Takaichi now faces the challenge of steering Japan through persistent economic headwinds while balancing key diplomatic relationships, particularly with allies in the Indo-Pacific region. Analysts say her leadership style and policy priorities will shape Japan’s domestic and foreign direction in the months ahead.