Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2025 (FMC) – Japan’s parliament has elected Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female Prime Minister, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s political history.

Takaichi, who leads the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), secured 237 votes in the 465-seat Lower House, defeating Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party, who received 149 votes. She was also endorsed by the Upper House, confirming her as Japan’s 104th Prime Minister.

Her appointment follows the resignation of former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down after electoral setbacks. The vote also came after the collapse of the long-standing coalition between the LDP and the centrist Komeito Party, prompting the LDP to form a new alliance with the right-leaning Japan Innovation Party to secure a working majority.

Takaichi, a veteran politician with nearly three decades of parliamentary experience, has previously served as Minister for Economic Security and Minister for Internal Affairs.

In her inaugural address, she pledged to strengthen Japan’s economy, ensure stability, and lead the nation toward what she described as a “future-responsible” direction.

Her appointment marks Japan’s fifth change in premiership in as many years, underscoring the country’s frequent leadership transitions. The new government is expected to focus on revitalizing the economy, addressing demographic challenges, and reinforcing Japan’s role in regional and global affairs.