In Japan, for the first time in the country’s history, a woman will hold the post of prime minister. She became 64-year-old Sanae Takaichi, reports New York Times.
Takaichi represents the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan and is one of the most conservative politicians in the country. As prime minister, she will replace Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned on September 7.
Ishiba held the post for less than a year. He had previously refused to step down after the LDP’s defeat in the upper house of parliament in July, saying he needed to complete a trade deal with the US on tariffs. After reaching an agreement, Ishiba announced his resignation.
Takaichi is known in Japan for her conservative views. In particular, she opposes legislation that allows women to keep their maiden names after marriage, as well as against same-sex marriage. She is also known for her anti-immigrant rhetoric.
For her tough positions, she is often called the “Iron Lady”, like Margaret Thatcher, the Prime Minister of Great Britain at the time. Takaichi herself notes that Thatcher is a “role model” for her.
In addition, she is committed to revising Japan’s constitution, and regularly visits the Yasukuni Shrine, which commemorates those who died in World War II, including those who were involved in war crimes. In foreign policy, Takaichi supports Ukraine and advocates a tough policy towards China.
