MWE Correspondent
Sanae Takaichi, a seasoned conservative politician often compared to Margaret Thatcher, has made history by becoming Japan’s first female prime minister, marking a turning point in the nation’s political landscape.
The 64-year-old leader, who recently won the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership race, officially took office on Tuesday, succeeding Fumio Kishida. Her appointment comes at a time when the ruling party is battling growing voter discontent over economic stagnation, rising inflation, and a lingering political funding scandal.
Takaichi is widely known for her firm stance on national defense and economic security. A strong advocate for bolstering Japan’s military capabilities, she has called for closer ties with the United States while maintaining a cautious but assertive posture toward China and strong support for Taiwan.
Having served as the Minister for Economic Security under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi has promised to continue his legacy through “Abenomics”—a policy mix of aggressive monetary easing and bold fiscal stimulus aimed at reviving Japan’s sluggish economy.
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She has also pledged to tackle economic inequality, expand investment in technology, and promote job creation in rural areas.
Despite breaking the highest political glass ceiling, analysts caution that Takaichi’s rise may not necessarily signal a broader feminist awakening in Japan. She has long opposed same-sex marriage and avoided challenging the country’s deep-rooted patriarchal structures. Critics argue that while her appointment is historically significant, her policies are unlikely to advance women’s rights in any major way.
Still, her supporters describe her as a symbol of perseverance and resilience in a political world long dominated by men. “She represents both tradition and change—a conservative who has defied the odds to reach the top,” said political analyst Hiroshi Matsumoto.
