Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female PM: Conservative Leader Promises Strong Security, Economic, and Social Reforms
Sanae Takaichi is a vocal security hawk and hardline conservative. She is set to lead the fourth-largest economy in the world as Japan's first female prime minister.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) October 5: Sanae Takaichi is a conservative and former internal affairs minister. She has been elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). It brings in a new era in Japanese politics. She will become Japan's first female prime minister after winning the party elections.
Takaichi replaces Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned after electoral failures. The 64-year-old leader made history in Japan's male-dominated political landscape. It is when he defeated Farm Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in a highly contentious election.
Historic Victory in Male-Dominated Politics
The newscaster made her third attempt at the position on Saturday. She defeated four male candidates to become the leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Her win puts her in a position to succeed departing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. He resigned following a contentious year in which the LDP lost its coalition majority in both houses of parliament.
Conservative Views on Gender and Society
It is not believed that Takaichi is a feminist. She opposes same-sex marriage and legislative changes that would let married couples to have different last names. Political analysts predict that rather than questioning traditional gender roles, her administration may continue to strengthen them. Sanae has, however, pledged to give women more powerful cabinet positions. She refers to the Nordic nations as her example of gender equality.
From Nara to National Leadership
It has been impressive to see how Takaichi has become one of Japan's most ambitious and dedicated politicians. She first entered politics in 1993. It was when she was elected to the parliament on behalf of her hometown of Nara. She has served in a number of important capacities throughout the years. This includes the minister of economic security, gender equality, and internal affairs. She continues to hold firmly traditional views on gender and family.
Influence of Shinzo Abe and Margaret Thatcher
Takaichi views the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as an inspiration for her political persona. She is known as "Japan's Iron Lady" for her stubborn political stand. It has drawn her both praise and criticism. Her philosophy was heavily influenced by her mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Plans for Defense, Economy, and Technology
She has promised to implement stricter immigration and criminal justice laws, advance nuclear fusion and cybersecurity research, and strengthen Japan's defense. She also advocated for changing Japan's postwar pacifist constitution. It forbids the nation from going to war, during her run for office.
Challenges Ahead in Diplomacy and Alliances
Her ultra-conservative views could sour relations with Komeito. It is a moderate party with Buddhist support. It will also make Japan's relations with China and South Korea more difficult.
She suggests eliminating the temporary gas tax and implementing cash-benefit tax credits to help those with lower incomes. She contends that it will "stimulate consumption while maintaining fiscal discipline.”
Sanae Takaichi is motivated by a nation-first philosophy. She is even prepared to confront the US directly if she feels that the current trade agreement is unfair or harmful to Japan.
