Sanae Takaichi / History created in Japan, find out who is Takachi who will become the country's first female PM

Sanae Takaichi: Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) made a historic decision on October 4, 2025, electing former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi as its new leader. With this victory, Takaichi is set to become Japan's first female Prime Minister. This move marks the beginning of a new era in Japanese politics, as the country has never before seen a woman in this top position.

Tough Leadership Competition

The LDP elected its new president after Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba resigned on September 7, 2025. There were five candidates in the race, but the main contest was between Takaichi and Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi (son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi). Takaichi received 183 votes in the first round, while Koizumi received 164. Since no candidate received a clear majority, a runoff vote was held. Takaichi defeated Koizumi in this decisive round.

The voting process involved 295 LDP lawmakers and approximately 1 million party members, representing just 1% of Japan's total population. This process reflects the LDP's dominance in Japan's political system, as the leader of the ruling party typically becomes the country's prime minister.

Sanae Takaichi: A Conservative Power

Sanae Takaichi, 64, is known as a staunch conservative leader. Her policies and ideology reflect Japan's traditional and strategic priorities. She has been vocal on the following issues:

Yasukuni Shrine Dispute: Takaichi regularly visits the Yasukuni Shrine, which is dedicated to Japanese soldiers, including World War II war criminals. This shrine has been a source of tension with regional countries, particularly China and South Korea.

Changes to the Pacifist Constitution: She supports amending Japan's pacifist constitution to enhance the country's military capabilities.

Cooperation with Taiwan: Takaichi advocates strengthening security cooperation with Taiwan, which could be a significant step in regional geopolitics.

Review of Investment Agreements with the US: She has stressed the need to review economic and investment agreements with the US.

In her speech before the runoff vote, Takaichi said, "The strong criticism from across the country has motivated me. People don't understand what the LDP stands for. I want to transform their concerns about everyday life and the future into hope."

Economic and Diplomatic Outlook

In her campaign, Takaichi set an ambitious goal of doubling Japan's economy over the next 10 years. Her policies focus on economic development and national security. Furthermore, she considers India a special strategic partner and emphasizes increased cooperation within the Quad alliance and the Indo-Pacific region.

Upcoming Challenges

A parliamentary vote on the new prime minister is expected in mid-October 2025, formally confirming Takaichi's appointment. Following this, he will immediately face several diplomatic challenges. Chief among these is his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea in late October 2025. This meeting could pressure Japan to increase defense spending, as the Trump administration has previously demanded from allies.