Sanae Takaichi has made history by being elected as the new leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), positioning her to become the country's first female prime minister. The 64-year-old conservative politician won the leadership contest on Saturday, defeating Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in a runoff vote. This election is significant in a nation that has long struggled with gender equality issues.

Takaichi's victory comes at a crucial time for the LDP, which is seeking to regain public trust after recent electoral setbacks. She will replace outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned following the party's loss of majority in both chambers of parliament last year. Despite facing a divided opposition, the LDP remains the largest party in the lower house, paving the way for Takaichi's confirmation as prime minister in a parliamentary vote expected on October 15.

In her acceptance speech, Takaichi expressed gratitude to her supporters and acknowledged the challenges ahead. "I made history for the LDP," she stated, adding, "I’m not feeling joy yet, only the weight of the challenges ahead that I must face with everyone’s help."

Takaichi, who has previously served as the Economic Security Minister, is known for her conservative views and has often cited former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as an inspiration. She faces significant challenges, including an ageing population, sluggish economic growth, and rising geopolitical tensions. Additionally, she must address growing public discontent and the emergence of new populist forces in Japanese politics.

During her campaign, Takaichi emphasized the need to reconsider immigration policies, reflecting a shift in mainstream political discourse in Japan, where foreigners make up only three percent of the population. Analysts have noted that while her election is a milestone for women in politics, her stance on gender issues may not advance gender equality significantly. Yuki Tsuji, a politics and gender specialist, remarked, "She has no interest in women’s rights or gender policies."

As Takaichi prepares to take on her new role, she aims to transform public anxieties into hope, stating, "That sense of urgency drove me. I wanted to turn people’s anxieties about their daily lives and the future into hope." Her leadership marks a new chapter in Japan's political landscape, as she becomes the first woman to lead the LDP since its establishment.