In a historic moment for Japan, Sanae Takaichi, leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has been elected as the nation’s first female prime minister. The landmark decision came after Takaichi secured 237 votes in the lower house election on Tuesday, surpassing the majority required in the 465-seat chamber. Her victory paves the way for her official inauguration later in the day, marking a significant milestone in Japan’s political landscape. Takaichi is expected to gain approval from the upper house, albeit less influential, and will be sworn in as Japan’s 104th prime minister. She succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned last month following electoral setbacks. Takaichi’s ascension is seen as a transformative step for gender equality in a country where women have historically been underrepresented in leadership roles. Her election also signals a potential shift in Japan’s political dynamics, as she takes the helm during a period of economic and social challenges.