Japan Elects Sanae Takaichi as First Female Prime Minister, Modi Hails ‘Historic’ Win

Japan has made history by electing Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister, following a parliamentary vote that ended months of political uncertainty.

The 64-year-old ultraconservative leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned earlier in the day after his party’s election defeat in July.

Takaichi secured 237 votes in the lower house — four more than required for a majority — defeating opposition leader Yoshiko Noda. Her victory was sealed through a new coalition deal between the LDP and the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (Ishin no Kai), though the alliance still lacks a firm majority in both chambers of parliament.

In her first remarks, Takaichi emphasized the need for stability, saying, “Without stability, we cannot push measures for a strong economy or diplomacy.” Analysts, however, warn that her untested coalition could face major hurdles in passing legislation and maintaining public confidence.

A protégé of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi is known for her nationalist views, support for constitutional revision, and strong defense stance. She has also drawn attention for her admiration of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher — and for her unconventional personal interests, including her love for heavy metal music and drumming.

Takaichi inherits a fragile economy marked by inflation, a weak yen, and growing public discontent over rising prices. Economists expect her to continue Abe’s economic policies, though experts caution that Japan’s financial and geopolitical realities have changed significantly.

Internationally, Takaichi is expected to maintain Japan’s close security alliance with the United States. Her upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump is seen as a key test of her diplomatic skills.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi on her election, describing it as a “historic moment” and expressing hope for deeper ties between New Delhi and Tokyo. “I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” Modi wrote on X.

Takaichi’s appointment marks a new chapter in Japan’s political history — one that blends symbolism with uncertainty as the country’s first woman leader takes charge amid deep domestic and global challenges.