Sanae Takaichi elected Japan prime minister

After a late coalition deal with the Japan Innovation Party, Sanae Takaichi was elected Japan prime minister today, becoming the country’s first woman to lead the government as she inherits a cost-of-living squeeze, a weak yen and a public weary of scandals.

The vote in parliament followed the LDP’s recent leadership race and the collapse of its long-standing pact with Komeito. The new arrangement gives Takaichi a narrow path to govern but leaves her reliant on support beyond her own benches as she faces rising prices, a weakened yen and a public weary of scandals.

Markets moved on anticipation of her approach to policy. Takaichi has long aligned herself with the Abe-era mix of stimulus and easy credit, while promising targeted investment to lift wages. Early signals point to a cabinet that blends party heavyweights with loyalists.

In foreign policy, she inherits a demanding in-tray. Relations with China are tense, while ties with South Korea have been improving but remain delicate. The most consequential test will be with Washington; the two countries’ security treaty remains the cornerstone of Japan’s defence posture as she prepares for talks with the White House next week.

Takaichi is a veteran conservative who has served in several ministerial posts. Her social positions, including opposition to same-sex marriage and to separate surnames for married couples, divide opinion at home. Supporters hail a breakthrough in a male-dominated political system; critics question whether her policies signal structural change for women.

“Stability and cost-of-living relief are what voters want to see immediately,” said one Tokyo-based economist, noting the tight arithmetic in parliament and the risk of policy gridlock.

Her first weeks will be measured against three tasks: easing household pressure from inflation, steadying the coalition’s numbers in both houses, and setting a credible course for defence and diplomacy as global tensions sharpen.

For more stories on London’s business, finance, and the global economy and politics, follow EyeOnLondon for informed and independent reporting.

Follow us on:

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!

We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!