Meet Sanae Takaichi: Japan's New 'Iron Lady'

Mon Oct 20 2025 19:37:26 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Sanae Takaichi aims to reshape Japan as its first female prime minister, stepping into a role steeped in challenges and ambitions to reclaim conservative voters.

Sanae Takaichi, a former television host and drummer, was recently elected as the leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The 64-year-old is poised to possibly become Japan's first female prime minister. Known for her strong conservative views, she has previously faced defeat in leadership elections but succeeded on her third attempt. Takaichi aims to restore faith in the LDP while addressing issues such as economic recovery and social discontent among voters.

Respected figure: Baroness Margaret Thatcher. Personal goal: to become Japan's Iron Lady.

After two failed attempts, Sanae Takaichi finally achieved her long-held ambition. The 64-year-old was elected leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on its 70th anniversary - putting her on course to become the country's first female prime minister.

A former government minister and TV host, and once a drummer in a heavy metal band, she will now face the challenge of leading a party still struggling to regain voter trust after scandals, while responding to a rising far right.

Born in Nara Prefecture in 1961, Takaichi's father was an office worker and her mother a police officer. Politically inspired in the 1980s, she has since held senior government roles, including minister for economic security, and has built a reputable voice within the LDP.

In her time in politics, Takaichi has maintained a conservative stance, being against same-sex marriage and traditional changes like women keeping their maiden names. However, she is beginning to soften her approach, advocating for tax support for childcare and better recognition for support workers.

Upon her recent election win, she stated her intent to lead the LDP back to power, as it has been losing ground amid economic frustrations and rising right-wing sentiments. Takaichi is preparing to confront these challenges as parliament is expected to confirm her as prime minister on October 15.