Sanae Takaichi Set to Become Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

TOKYO: Sanae Takaichi is set to become Japan’s first female prime minister after being elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Her appointment is a historic moment in a country where politics remains heavily male-dominated.

Takaichi, 64, has vowed to increase female representation in cabinet and raise awareness about women’s health. However, her socially conservative views have drawn criticism from gender equality advocates.

She opposes legalising same-sex marriage, revising the law requiring married couples to share a surname, and allowing women to inherit the imperial throne.

“She has no interest in women’s rights or gender equality policies,” said Professor Yuki Tsuji of Tokai University.

While her leadership is symbolically significant, many remain sceptical about real policy change. Japan continues to rank low on global gender equality metrics, with women holding just 13.2% of managerial positions and 15% of parliamentary seats.

Still, her rise marks a potential turning point in Japanese politics, if not in gender policy.

By RSS/AFP