TOKYO, Sept 18 — Sanae Takaichi, a prominent conservative voice in Japanese politics and a known critic of China, has officially launched her campaign to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), setting the stage for a historic bid to become Japan’s first female prime minister.
At 64, Takaichi brings decades of political experience, a reputation for staunch nationalism, and deep loyalty to the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whose policies she aims to continue—especially on defense, economic stimulus, and national identity.
In her brief but assertive address to the press today, Takaichi shared her vision for the country:
“What we need now is politics that transforms people’s daily lives and anxieties about the future into hopes and dreams,” she said.
“And it is also strong politics that will overcome the crisis Japan faces.”
Her announcement comes just ahead of agriculture minister Shinjiro Koizumi’s expected entry into the race. Both are seen as leading contenders to replace outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a moderate figure stepping down after electoral setbacks.
Takaichi’s platform centers on conservative social values, military readiness, and an aggressive economic stimulus strategy—including big government spending and low interest rates—a continuation of the “Abenomics” legacy.
She has previously drawn international attention for her regular visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, a move seen by critics as glorifying Japan’s militarist past. Her vocal criticism of China’s military actions in the Asia-Pacific further underscores her hardline foreign policy stance.
This isn’t her first run at leadership—Takaichi previously ran in the party’s leadership elections and came in second last year to Ishiba. However, this time she enters the race with a stronger political base and rising support.
Polls from Jiji Press released today show Takaichi as a close second behind the charismatic Koizumi, 44, who, like his father former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, is a regular figure at Yasukuni and a favorite in media circles.
Also joining the leadership race are Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi and two other male candidates, but the primary contest appears to be shaping up as a showdown between Takaichi and Koizumi.
The LDP will vote on its next leader on October 4, and the winner will likely become Japan’s next prime minister—if they can secure a legislative majority with opposition support.
A Moment Bigger Than Politics
If Takaichi wins, it would mark a historic milestone in Japan’s male-dominated political system. But beyond the headlines and political posturing, her campaign is also a statement: that women can lead at the highest level—even in one of the world’s most traditional political landscapes.
Her journey reflects the tension between Japan’s conservative past and the demands of a more inclusive, forward-looking future. Whether or not she secures victory, her candidacy already sends a powerful message to a new generation of leaders and voters across the nation.
