Takaichi Makes History as Japan’s First Female Prime Minister

Liberal Democratic Party President Sanae Takaichi was elected prime minister by parliament on Tuesday, shattering Japan’s glass ceiling to become the country’s first female leader, Gabriele Ninivaggi reported for The Japan Times.

Lawmakers applauded Takaichi as she cast her vote and welcomed her with another thunderous round of applause following her election. (Photo: PM's Office of Japan X)

Takaichi avoided a runoff by winning a majority in the first round of voting in the Lower House, garnering 237 votes against Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan leader Yoshihiko Noda’s 149.

Lawmakers applauded Takaichi as she cast her vote and welcomed her with another thunderous round of applause following her election.

Earlier, Takaichi secured a coalition agreement with Japan Innovation Party (JIP) leader Hirofumi Yoshimura, Himari Semans and Kanako Takahara also reported for The Japan Times.

The deal made it easier for Takaichi to win support from other parties. She emphasized that political stability is essential to advancing policies across the economy, diplomacy, and national security.