Tokyo, October 4, 2025 – Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old staunch conservative, has secured her place in history as the newly elected president of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), paving the way to become the nation’s first female prime minister.

Takaichi clinched the LDP leadership in a closely contested runoff on Saturday, defeating Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. She garnered 149 votes from LDP lawmakers compared to Koizumi’s 145, with a stronger showing among party members (36 votes to 11). The tight race underscores the internal rifts within the LDP, which has long dominated Japanese politics but now grapples with declining public confidence.

Her rise follows the resignation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose brief tenure was plagued by electoral setbacks and controversies over political funding. Ishiba’s exit, after the LDP-led coalition lost its parliamentary majority, opened the door for Takaichi, a close ally of the late Shinzo Abe and a frequent visitor to the polarizing Yasukuni Shrine. Her leadership signals a bold shift toward conservative priorities, focusing on national strength and traditional values.

Drawing inspiration from Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi has pledged to revitalize the LDP and reconnect with voters disillusioned by economic woes, such as rising costs and stagnant wages. “The true work begins now,” she declared in her victory speech, emphasizing her commitment to restoring the party’s conservative roots while forgoing personal balance for the sake of leadership.

Takaichi is set to be formally confirmed as prime minister by parliament on October 15, with opposition parties too fragmented to pose a challenge. She faces a complex landscape, including economic pressures and heightened regional tensions with China and North Korea. Known for her hawkish stance on China, Takaichi aims to project a resurgent Japan on the global stage, including strengthening ties with the U.S. under President Donald Trump.

However, her conservative positions, such as opposing legal changes to allow married women to keep their maiden names, have sparked criticism from advocates for gender equality, who question whether her historic role will advance women’s rights. Political observers also caution that her hardline views could strain relations with neighboring countries and unsettle Japan’s economy, the world’s fourth largest.

As Takaichi steps into this unprecedented role, her leadership will be a critical test of whether her vision can unify a divided LDP and guide Japan through turbulent times.