Japan Elects Sanae Takaichi First Female Prime Minister Amid Coalition Challenges

Japan has elected Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone in a country traditionally dominated by male leadership. Takaichi secured 237 votes in the lower house with support from a coalition between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the right-wing Japan Innovation Party, although her coalition lacks a majority in both parliamentary houses, raising concerns about legislative stability. She is expected to appoint a Cabinet balancing allies and former rivals, including influential figures like Taro Aso's supporters, and has signaled appointments of key figures such as Toshimitsu Motegi as Foreign Minister and Shinjiro Koizumi as Defense Minister. Known for her conservative stances, Takaichi opposes progressive reforms such as same-sex marriage and legal changes allowing separate surnames for married couples, signaling a rightward shift in policy direction amid public concerns over cost of living and immigration. Her rise follows the resignation of outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down amid domestic dissatisfaction and tariff negotiations with the U.S. Takaichi's administration is poised to navigate challenges in passing legislation due to its coalition's lack of outright majority and Japan's evolving political landscape.