Sanae Takaichi, 64, has been elected as the new leader of Japan’s ruling conservative party. This puts her in a position to potentially become Japan’s first female prime minister. Takaichi, a former government minister, TV host, and heavy metal drummer, is a well-known but controversial figure within the right wing of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
She faces significant challenges, including a sluggish economy with inflation and stagnant wages. Takaichi must manage a complicated US-Japan relationship and follow through on a tariff deal made by the previous administration. Additionally, she needs to unite the LDP after years of scandals and internal conflict.
Takaichi’s rise comes after the resignation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba last month. Ishiba stepped down after his term included several election defeats, causing the LDP-led coalition to lose its majority in both parliamentary chambers. Prof. Jeff Kingston from Temple University in Tokyo believes Takaichi, who is part of the party’s “hardline” faction, is unlikely to mend the internal division. He thinks her conservative views may attract right-wing voters but could alienate a broader audience in a national election.
A long-time admirer of Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi seems closer to achieving her “Iron Lady” dream. However, Prof. Kingston points out she differs from Thatcher on fiscal discipline and, like Thatcher, is not known for her healing approach. Many women voters do not view Takaichi as a champion for progress due to her strong conservatism, including her opposition to allowing women to keep their maiden names after marriage and her stance against same-sex marriage.
As a follower of the late Shinzo Abe, she has promised to bring back his “Abenomics” economic strategy, which emphasizes high fiscal spending. The LDP veteran is also focused on security, seeking to change Japan’s pacifist constitution, and she frequently visits the controversial Yasukuni shrine.
Although Takaichi is expected to be confirmed
