Editorial

16:58 JST, October 22, 2025

Japan’s first female prime minister has appeared. Will this be an opportunity to break through the sense of stagnation enveloping the nation? Even under the severe circumstances of a minority ruling bloc, she must advance politics and open up a new era.

Liberal Democratic Party President Sanae Takaichi has become Japan’s 104th prime minister. She is the 66th person to serve as prime minister and the first woman to hold the post.

While it has been noted that Japan is lagging in terms of women’s empowerment in society, many people may have been encouraged by Takaichi becoming the leader of Japan’s national politics. It is hoped that this major turning point in the nation’s politics will lead to the vitalization of the economy and society.

In forming her Cabinet, Takaichi appointed Shinjiro Koizumi as defense minister; Yoshimasa Hayashi as internal affairs and communications minister; and Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister. The three competed with Takaichi in the latest LDP presidential election. She had already appointed Takayuki Kobayashi, who also was a contender in the party leadership race, as LDP Policy Research Council chairperson.

The LDP and the Japan Innovation Party have formed a new coalition government, but there is no change in the situation of the ruling parties still lacking a majority of seats in both houses of the Diet. Takaichi has likely considered that unless she builds unity among all party members, she will not be able to manage........

© The Japan News