Japan's LDP elects Takaichi as new leader, likely to be first female PM

"Sanae Takaichi has been elected to lead Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and is therefore likely to become the next prime minister, the first woman to lead the nation in its history. Takaichi beat Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, in a run-off vote on Saturday after none of the five candidates won a majority in the first round of voting. A former economic security minister, Takaichi, 64, skews towards the right-wing flank of the LDP."

"Takaichi is expected to replace Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba since the LDP remains the largest in parliament. However, following the recent elections, the LDP-led coalition no longer holds majorities in either chamber and will require cooperation from opposition lawmakers to govern effectively. If elected prime minister, Takaichi will face a host of complex issues including an ageing population, geopolitical upheaval, a faltering economy and growing unease about immigration."

Sanae Takaichi has been elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and is likely to become Japan’s first female prime minister. She defeated Shinjiro Koizumi in a run-off and is identified with the LDP’s right wing. A parliamentary vote to confirm the prime minister is expected on October 15. The LDP-led coalition lost majorities in both chambers and will require opposition cooperation to govern. The incoming leader will confront an ageing population, geopolitical tensions, a faltering economy and rising public unease about immigration. The LDP must rebuild voter trust while facing competition from populist parties like Sanseito.

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