Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has elected Sanae Takaichi as its new leader, positioning the 64-year-old conservative nationalist to become the country’s first female prime minister. A parliamentary vote to formally replace outgoing leader Shigeru Ishiba is scheduled for October 15, 2025.
A Party at a Crossroads
Takaichi assumes leadership of the LDP at a turbulent moment. Once dominant, the party has recently lost its majority in both houses of parliament, with voters increasingly drawn to opposition groups offering bold stimulus plans and tougher stances on immigration. In her acceptance speech, Takaichi acknowledged the public’s disillusionment, pledging to transform “anxieties about daily life and the future into hope.”
Economic and Political Vision
A former internal affairs minister and advocate of Shinzo Abe’s “Abenomics,” Takaichi supports aggressive government spending and low interest rates, placing her at odds with the Bank of Japan’s recent tightening moves. She has also suggested revisiting a U.S. trade and investment agreement brokered under former President Donald Trump.
Her policy agenda is expected to attract close scrutiny from global markets, given Japan’s already heavy debt burden.
Nationalist Leanings and Foreign Policy
Takaichi’s positions reflect a more nationalist outlook than her rival, Shinjiro Koizumi, who lost the leadership race. She is known for her regular visits to the controversial Yasukuni shrine, a practice that could strain relations with China and South Korea. She has also voiced support for constitutional revision, closer ties with Taiwan, and a stronger regional security role for Japan.
Promising a more active international presence than her predecessor, Takaichi has pledged to represent Japan abroad under the message: “Japan is Back!”
What Comes Next
If confirmed by parliament, Takaichi will not only make history as Japan’s first female prime minister but also face the immediate challenge of restoring voter trust and redefining the LDP’s identity in an increasingly fragmented political landscape.
She is expected to hold her first press conference as party leader at 09:00 GMT.
