Sanae Takaichi becomes Japan’s first female Prime Minister

Japan made history on Tuesday, October 21, as Sanae Takaichi was elected by parliament to become the country’s first female prime minister.

The 64-year-old hardline conservative, known for her uncompromising stances, has earned the title of “Iron Lady of Japan” for her firm leadership style and nationalistic positions.

Takaichi rose to power after winning an all-male race to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on October 5. She had to navigate significant political hurdles, including the exit of her party’s moderate coalition partner that ended their 26-year alliance.

Challenges ahead for Takaichi

Analysts say her plans for large-scale government spending and economic reforms may unsettle investors in one of the world’s most indebted economies.

Takaichi emphasized the need to rebuild Japan and the LDP, pledging to work with humility and urging lawmakers to guide her in their respective areas of expertise.

According to Hindustan Times, among her immediate challenges are reviving Japan’s sluggish economy, uniting a party rocked by scandals and internal conflicts, and managing delicate relations with powerful neighbours like China, while also preparing to host US President Donald Trump during his upcoming visit.

With her decisive win, 237 votes in the Lower House against 149 for opposition leader Yoshihiko Noda, Takaichi now faces the task of turning her ambitious vision into reality while maintaining stability at home and abroad.

Meanwhile, PM Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Takaichi on X, writing: “Heartiest congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your election as the Prime Minister of Japan. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

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