Japan ’s ruling party on Saturday chose former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi as its new leader, paving the way for her to become the nation’s first female Prime Minister.

In a country that consistently fares poorly in global gender equality rankings, Takaichi’s rise marks a historic milestone — she will be the first woman ever to lead Japan’s long-dominant conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Known for her staunchly traditional views, she is also considered among the most conservative figures within the male-dominated party.

Takaichi secured her victory in a runoff election against Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former and widely admired Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, during an intraparty vote held by the LDP on Saturday.

She succeeds Prime M

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