By Fathimath Afnan, Maldives Insight Correspondent
25 January 2024

Japan has elected its first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old veteran politician known for her staunch conservative views and close ties to former Premier Shinzo Abe. Her victory represents a notable departure from Japan’s traditional policy-focused campaigning, driven by her widespread personal popularity.

A Campaign Focused on Personality

Traditionally, Japanese political campaigns prioritise policy over individual personalities, with an emphasis on political platforms rather than personal images. However, Ms. Takaichi’s campaign defied this norm, with her distinctive public persona playing a significant role in her electoral success.

Her high recognition among the populace is notable, to the extent that even her “pink pen” used for signing documents is widely known. This personal connection resonated with voters, culminating in a decisive victory that saw her become the nation’s first woman to hold the premiership.

Political Background and Ideology

Affectionately dubbed Japan’s “Iron Lady” – a moniker often associated with former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, whom Ms. Takaichi admires – she embarked on her political journey in the 1990s, joining the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Born in Nara Prefecture, Ms. Takaichi graduated from Kobe University and, unlike many LDP leaders, hails from an ordinary family background. She was also a trusted confidante of the late Shinzo Abe, sharing many of his political philosophies.

Ms. Takaichi is a firm proponent of conservative principles. She advocates for “Abenomics,” which involves increased government spending and economic reforms. Her stance on social issues includes opposition to same-sex marriage and a call for stricter immigration controls. On the international front, she supports a robust foreign policy towards China and favours strengthening Japan’s military capabilities.

Challenges Ahead

Political analysts suggest that Ms. Takaichi’s premiership is likely to steer Japan’s political direction further towards the right-wing. Nevertheless, significant alterations to the nation’s social security system are not widely anticipated under her leadership.

Ms. Takaichi assumes office at a politically sensitive juncture, facing several pressing challenges. These include addressing the rising cost of living, navigating the potential ramifications of international trade policies, including those associated with former US President Donald Trump, and managing security concerns posed by China and North Korea. Furthermore, her administration will need to confront and overcome corruption allegations that have previously impacted the LDP.