Japan's Parliament elected Sanae Takaichi as the nation's first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone amid a turbulent political landscape. The ultraconservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) stalwart succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, whose one-year tenure ended earlier that day following the LDP's significant electoral setback in July. Takaichi's ascent was secured through a last-minute coalition agreement with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (JIP), led by Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura, after the LDP lost its long-standing ally, the centrist Komeito.

The coalition deal, formalized on October 20, reflects Takaichi's hawkish and nationalistic priorities, emphasizing a robust economy and assertive diplomacy. However, the alliance falls short of a parliamentary majority, requiring Takaichi to navigate delicate negotiations with opposition groups to pass legislation. This precarious position raises concerns about the stability of her government. "Political stability is essential right now," Takaichi stated during the coalition signing, underscoring the need for cohesive governance to address pressing issues like rising prices and economic revitalization.

Takaichi, a 64-year-old protégé of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is poised to advance his legacy, advocating for a stronger military and constitutional revisions to move away from Japan's pacifist framework. Her Cabinet, announced later on October 21, includes allies of LDP powerbroker Taro Aso and supporters from her party leadership bid, though JIP has opted to withhold ministerial appointments until the coalition's durability is assured. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations, expressing eagerness to bolster India-Japan relations under Takaichi’s leadership.

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Her premiership faces immediate challenges, including a major policy speech, discussions with US President Donald Trump, and regional summits. Economic measures to counter public frustration over inflation are also due by December. Despite her historic role, Takaichi has resisted progressive reforms, opposing gender equality initiatives, same-sex marriage, and separate surnames for married couples, while supporting male-only imperial succession.

Takaichi's rise follows the LDP’s fallout with Komeito, which cited the party’s inadequate response to slush fund scandals and discomfort with Takaichi’s revisionist views on Japan’s wartime history. Her past visits to Yasukuni Shrine, criticized by Beijing and Seoul as dismissive of Japan’s wartime accountability, have stirred controversy, though she recently moderated her approach by sending a religious offering instead of attending in person. As Takaichi steps into this uncharted role, her ability to balance a fragile coalition, international pressures, and domestic demands will define Japan’s trajectory.

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