Japanese parliament elected Sanae Takaichi as Japan’s first female prime minister on Tuesday, ending a three-month political standstill. The 64-year-old takes over from Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned along with his Cabinet. Her rise comes after a new coalition between the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party, which is expected to move the government further to the right. Takaichi faces economic challenges and regional diplomatic issues.
▼Ms. TAKAICHI Sanae has been designated as the 104th Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/1j5wXPHZuo
— PM’s Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) October 21, 2025
Sanae Takaichi Becomes PM
The LDP-JIP coalition secured Takaichi’s rise, although her government lacks a full majority in parliament. She faces the immediate challenge of passing key legislation while addressing rising living costs and economic concerns. A close ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi is set to continue conservative policies, including stronger defence measures and potential constitutional changes, amid ongoing public scrutiny.
