Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has chosen Sanae Takaichi, 64, as its new leader. If confirmed as prime minister, she will become the first woman in Japanese history to lead the government.
Election Process and Challenges
- A parliamentary vote to elect the prime minister to replace Shigeru Ishiba is expected on October 15.
- Takaichi was the only woman among five LDP candidates and defeated Shinjiro Koizumi, 44, in the final round of voting.
- LDP and its coalition partner lost their majority in both chambers of parliament last year, making her task particularly challenging.
Takaichi described her election as an opportunity to restore public confidence amid rising prices and political challenges.
Political and Economic Vision
- She supports “Abenomics”, the economic strategy of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, focusing on aggressive spending and loose monetary policy.
- She has criticized interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan and may renegotiate investment agreements with the United States.
- Her political hero is Margaret Thatcher, the UK’s first female prime minister, and Takaichi offers a clearer vision for change than Koizumi.
Nationalist Views and Foreign Policy
- She regularly visits Yasukuni Shrine, seen by some Asian neighbors as a symbol of militarism.
- Supports revising Japan’s post-WWII pacifist constitution.
- Proposed forming a “security alliance” with Taiwan, which may strain relations with China.
- Plans to travel abroad more frequently to send the message that “Japan is back!”
Takaichi represents a significant shift in Japanese politics, bringing not only the country’s first female leader but also a more nationalist and economically proactive direction.
