Japan’s ruling party on Saturday chose former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi as its new leader, paving the way for her to become the nation’s first female Prime Minister.
In a country that consistently fares poorly in global gender equality rankings, Takaichi’s rise marks a historic milestone — she will be the first woman ever to lead Japan’s long-dominant conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Known for her staunchly traditional views, she is also considered among the most conservative figures within the male-dominated party.
Takaichi secured her victory in a runoff election against Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former and widely admired Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, during an intraparty vote held by the LDP on Saturday.
She succeeds Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, as the party strives to rebuild its waning public support and maintain its grip on power following a series of significant electoral setbacks.
Takaichi is widely expected to assume the premiership, given that the LDP continues to hold a commanding majority in Japan’s lower house of parliament, which selects the national leader. Moreover, the fragmented opposition offers little threat to her path toward the top post.
Takaichi Hails ‘New Era’
Celebrating her victory at the LDP headquarters in Tokyo on October 4, 2025, Takaichi declared that a “new era” had begun for Japan’s ruling party.
“Together with all of you, we have carved out a new era for the LDP,” she said, emphasising unity and renewal within the party.
Takaichi’s election sets her firmly on course to become Japan’s first female Prime Minister, a momentous achievement in the nation’s political history.
Following a string of consecutive parliamentary losses that have left the LDP in the minority in both houses, the party sought a leader capable of swiftly confronting Japan’s internal and external challenges while fostering cooperation with key opposition forces to ensure policy continuity.
A conservative nationalist with a proactive and expansionary agenda, the former Economic Security Minister is expected to officially succeed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, as the LDP remains Japan’s most powerful political force in parliament.
(With inputs from IBNS)
