Born in the US to Japanese parents, Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old rightwing politician, has been nominated as the first female leader. She is currently in a position to become Japan’s first female prime minister. Earlier this month, she was elected to the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). This bold move now paves the way for a deeper and more profound political realignment in the country. The LDP seems poised to make the most of swinging into action to sew up a coalition deal. During an extraordinary session of the Japanese legislature on Tuesday, Takaichi’s election will be officially confirmed.
Takaichi’s ascendance comes at a moment when the LDP seemed to be on the verge of losing control of the government. Her leadership caused a stir even before the first gavel fell. This moment of vulnerability greatly amplified when the centrist Komeito party concluded a 26-year coalition with the LDP, precipitating a political crisis. Takaichi’s candidacy has the most momentum. She would be the likely candidate to replace the current Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who just announced he would step down.
Coalition Support and Political Alliances
Takaichi has won support from the Japan Innovation Party to boost her premiership coalition. Such support strengthens the LDP’s prospects of remaining in power, despite recent defeats. Takaichi has received backing from Hirofumi Yoshimura, co-leader of the Japan Innovation Party.
“I told Takaichi that we should move forward together.” – Hirofumi Yoshimura
Her policies have drawn attention due to their “extremely hawkish” nature, particularly concerning national security and relations with neighboring countries. This approach, which could lead Japan’s foreign policy in a critical direction if she comes to office, is a departure from the status quo.
Concerns Over Leadership Impact
Despite Takaichi’s unprecedented candidacy, many analysts voice doubts about what it means for women’s political equality in Japan. During the election campaign, political commentator Chiyako Sato was among those who pointed out Takaichi’s path to victory. She cautioned that Takaichi’s policies would be unlikely to prioritize diversity and inclusion.
“The prospect of a first female prime minister doesn’t make me happy,” – Chizuko Ueno
Ueno continued, Takaichi’s leadership is not an indication that Japan’s political climate is becoming more hospitable to women.
“It doesn’t mean Japanese politics becomes kinder to women.” – Chizuko Ueno
