Japan appears poised to appoint its inaugural female prime minister, following the dominant conservative party’s selection of Sanae Takaichi as its new leader.
Takaichi, the former , triumphed over Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of the esteemed former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, in a decisive runoff during an intra-party vote conducted by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Saturday.
Takaichi will succeed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, as the party aims to restore public confidence and maintain its governance.
Even after experiencing significant electoral setbacks, the Liberal Democratic Party continues to hold an overwhelming majority in the lower house and, due to the fragmented nature of opposition factions, dictates Japan’s leadership.
During the initial ballot, Takaichi secured the lead with 183 votes, while Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi came in second with 164. Since neither contender achieved a majority in that first round, the victor was decided in an immediate subsequent runoff between the two.
The LDP, having faced successive defeats in parliamentary elections over the last year, resulting in a minority position in both legislative chambers, searched for a leader capable of swiftly tackling both domestic and international issues, concurrently seeking collaboration from significant opposition parties to enact its agenda.
Takaichi, a staunch conservative who has named former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as an inspiration, has advocated for enhancing Japan’s military strength and adopting a more assertive posture towards China and North Korea. Furthermore, she stands against same-sex marriage and maintains connections with nationalist organizations.
Takaichi is also slated for a potential summit with President Trump, who might insist that Japan elevate its defense spending. A meeting is reportedly being arranged for late October. Trump is scheduled to journey to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea beginning October 31.
The LDP additionally requires assistance from opposition groups, which it has historically disregarded. The party will probably seek to broaden its existing coalition with the moderate centrist Komeito by including at least one of the major opposition parties, typically those leaning more towards the center.
A vote in parliament is anticipated around the middle of October.