Sanae Takaichi made history on Tuesday becoming Japan’s first female prime minister after winning a tense party vote that signalled both change and continuity in one of the world’s most powerful democracies.
The 64-year-old conservative politician, often described as Japan’s “Iron Lady,” secured victory within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), succeeding a string of short-lived leaders who have struggled to steady the party’s reputation amid corruption scandals and economic stagnation.
“This is a historic day for Japan and for women everywhere,” Takaichi told reporters after her win. “But my duty now is to lead with responsibility, unity, and vision.”
A close friend and follower of the late former prime minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi belongs to the LDP’s nationalist wing. She is known for her strong views on defence, her admiration for former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and her belief in a more assertive Japan on the world stage.
Her victory comes after two failed attempts at the top job and makes her the fourth prime minister in five years — a sign of Japan’s unsettled political climate. Analysts say frequent leadership changes reflect deep divisions within the LDP and growing public frustration with its handling of the economy and governance.
Takaichi now faces a daunting to-do list. Japan’s economy remains sluggish, wages stagnant, and its ageing population continues to strain public finances. Abroad, she must navigate a delicate relationship with Washington, especially as regional tensions rise over China and North Korea.
Former US President Donald Trump, who has previously praised Takaichi as a “highly respected person of great wisdom,” congratulated her on social media, saying he expected “a strong and successful partnership.”
Political observers say Takaichi’s leadership will test both her resilience and Japan’s readiness for change. “Her win is symbolically powerful,” said political analyst Yuki Nakamura. “But the real challenge is whether she can unite a divided party and deliver results where her predecessors failed.”
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