Title: Japan’s First Female Prime Minister? Sanae Takaichi Wins LDP Leadership Election In a historic moment for Japan, former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi has been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), making her likely to become the country’s first female prime minister. This is significant not only because it marks a break from tradition in a country that ranks poorly internationally for gender equality but also due to Takaichi’s hard-line ultra-conservative and China hawk stance, which could have implications on Japan’s relations with its Asian neighbors. Takaichi, 64, is one of the most conservative members of the male-dominated LDP party and has been an admirer of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. She also regularly visits the Yasukuni Shrine, which symbolizes Japan’s wartime militarism and could potentially complicate Tokyo’s relations with its neighbors in Asia. In a runoff vote by the LDP on Saturday, Takaichi beat Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of popular former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. The party hopes that under her leadership they can regain public support and stay in power after suffering major election losses. As the largest party in the lower house, which determines the national leader, Takaichi is likely to become Japan’s next prime minister. In a speech following the announcement of the results, an emotional Takaichi thanked those who supported her and acknowledged the challenges ahead. “I made history for the LDP,” she said. “Right now, instead of savoring joy, I’m overwhelmed by what’s ahead, a mountain of challenges that I have to tackle with help from all.” The election of Sanae Takaichi as leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party marks an important moment for gender equality in the country. However, her hard-line stance and potential impact on relations with Asian neighbors make this development one worth watching closely. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how Takaichi navigates these challenges while leading a party that has been struggling to regain public support.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/10/04/g-s1-92073/japans-sanae-takaichi-likely-to-become-first-female-pm)
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