Sanae Takaichi becomes Japan’s first female prime minister after decisive Lower House win

Summary

On 21 October 2025, Japan’s Lower House elected Sanae Takaichi as the nation’s 104th Prime Minister, making her the first woman to hold the office. Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), won 237 votes versus 149 for opposition candidate Yoshihiko Noda. The LDP will form a coalition government with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), enabling the formation of a new Cabinet under Takaichi’s leadership.

Born in Nara Prefecture, Takaichi entered the LDP in 1996 and served in Shinzo Abe’s Cabinet a decade later. She has held senior posts including Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications — where she served a record term — and Minister in charge of Economic Security. Takaichi has publicly cited Margaret Thatcher as a political inspiration and signalled a tough, conservative approach to governance.

Key Points

Historic first: Sanae Takaichi is Japan’s first female prime minister.
Decisive Lower House result: Takaichi secured 237 votes to Yoshihiko Noda’s 149.
Coalition government: The LDP will partner with the Japan Innovation Party to form the new Cabinet.
Experienced politician: Long LDP career (since 1996) with senior ministerial roles, including a record term as Internal Affairs and Communications minister.
Political stance: Inspired by Margaret Thatcher and framing herself as an ‘Iron Lady’ figure, suggesting a firm, conservative policy direction on economy and security.

Why should I read this?

Short and blunt — this is a major political shift. A first woman in Japan’s top job matters symbolically and practically: expect potential changes to economic policy, labour and talent strategies, national security priorities and regional diplomacy. If you work in HR, leadership or business in APAC, Takaichi’s government could influence hiring, regulation and corporate governance — so it’s worth knowing what she stands for and who she’s partnering with.