Japan has made history with the election of Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first-ever female Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone in its political landscape.
The 64-year-old conservative, often referred to as Japan’s “Iron Lady”, is widely admired for her no-nonsense approach to governance and her admiration for former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, from whom she draws inspiration.
Takaichi’s victory comes on her third attempt at clinching the top job. She now becomes the fourth Prime Minister in five years from Japan’s scandal-plagued Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) — a party known for its frequent leadership changes amid public dissatisfaction and political controversies.
A protégé of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi represents the hardline faction of the LDP, advocating for stronger national defense policies and conservative social values.
Her election has already drawn international attention. Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously praised Takaichi as a “highly respected person of great wisdom,” signaling optimism for U.S.–Japan relations under her leadership.
Now in office, Takaichi faces a daunting list of challenges — including reviving Japan’s sluggish economy, repairing a rocky relationship with the U.S., and healing divisions within her ruling party.
Observers say her success could reshape Japan’s political future and inspire more women to seek leadership roles in the country’s traditionally male-dominated political system.