Takaichi elected Japan’s first female PM, unveils cabinet lineup

In a historic moment for Japan, Sanae Takaichi has been elected as the nation’s first female prime minister, marking a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape. The election, held on Tuesday, saw Takaichi secure victory in both houses of the Diet, Japan’s parliament, with a decisive majority. Her win comes at a critical juncture for Japan, which has been grappling with political scandals and economic challenges. Takaichi, the president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), garnered 237 votes in the lower house, surpassing her opponent, Yoshihiko Noda of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, who secured 149 votes. In the upper house, Takaichi led with 123 votes, triggering a runoff where she ultimately emerged victorious. This dual triumph officially named her Japan’s 104th prime minister. Takaichi’s cabinet lineup, unveiled shortly after her election, aims to foster party unity and ensure policy stability. Key appointments include Minoru Kihara as chief cabinet secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi as internal affairs minister, Shinjiro Koizumi as defense minister, and Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister. Takaichi, a 64-year-old ultraconservative politician, assumed the LDP presidency earlier this month, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned following the party’s consecutive electoral defeats. Her administration will lead a minority government in coalition with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), a partnership expected to focus on reviving Japan’s economy and creating a self-sustaining nation. While some opposition leaders have congratulated Takaichi, others have criticized her administration for shelving key policies. The political landscape remains tense as the new government prepares to address Japan’s pressing economic and social issues.