Japan made history on October 21, 2025, as parliament elected 64-year-old Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister.She replaced Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party faced election losses and internal divisions.
Takaichi secured 237 votes in the lower house, narrowly defeating the opposition candidate, who received 149 votes. Her victory followed a coalition agreement between the Liberal Democratic Party and the right-wing Japan Innovation Party.
The LDP lost its long-standing majority and relied on coalition support to form a new government. Together, both parties control 231 seats in the lower house, two short of a formal majority.
This leaves her administration vulnerable to legislative deadlock and political uncertainty. Analysts say Takaichi must balance party loyalty with public expectations as she begins her historic tenure.
A conservative politician and ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi campaigned on national defense and constitutional reform. She also pledged to tighten immigration laws, boost fiscal stimulus, and introduce tax cuts to support Japan’s economy.
Her visit to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine has sparked regional criticism from China and South Korea. Supporters praise her courage, while critics warn that her policies may strain diplomatic relations in Asia.
Citizens reacted with mixed emotions to her election as Japan’s first woman leader. “This is a milestone for Japan,” said Tokyo resident Yuki Tanaka, age 32. “But I hope she goes beyond symbolism and delivers real change,” Tanaka added.
On X, formerly Twitter, one user wrote: “First woman PM — about time Japan broke this ceiling!” Another user commented: “Her right-wing views worry me more than her gender.”
Takaichi now faces immediate challenges, including rising inflation, a weak yen, and ongoing tensions with China. She must also prepare Japan to host the upcoming APEC summit and welcome the U.S. President Donald Trump later this year.
Observers believe her leadership will face serious tests from the moment she takes office.
