Drums, Conservatism, and a Historic Victory: What Takaichi’s Rise Means for Japan
Japan is on the brink of electing its first female Prime Minister. Sanae Takaichi, a prominent conservative voice within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has won the party leadership, placing her in line to lead the nation.
Takaichi’s Historic Win in a Male-Dominated Political Landscape
At 64, Sanae Takaichi has long been a fixture in Japan’s right-wing political circles. With only 15% of the lower house comprising women and just two female prefectural governors, her victory is symbolically significant—yet controversial.
- Defeated Shinjiro Koizumi in a run-off election
- Parliamentary vote to confirm the new PM expected on October 15
- Becomes first woman to head the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)
From Drums and Motorbikes to Political Power
Takaichi’s background is anything but conventional:
- Former heavy-metal drummer
- Enthusiastic motorbike rider
- Entered politics in 1993 from her hometown in Nara
A Hardline Conservative with a Traditional View of Gender Roles
Takaichi is known for her deeply conservative stance, particularly on gender and family issues.
- Opposes same-sex marriage
- Rejects female succession to the imperial throne
- Against legislation allowing separate surnames for married couples
- Strongly supports traditional family roles: women as wives and mothers
Not an Advocate for Gender Equality
Gender expert Yuki Tsuji of Tokai University notes that Takaichi shows “no interest in women’s rights or gender equality policies,” raising doubts about any progressive shift under her leadership.
Personal Struggles and Women’s Health Advocacy
Despite her conservative views, Takaichi has spoken openly about her struggles with menopause, urging society to:
- Educate men about female health issues
- Offer greater workplace and educational support for women dealing with hormonal health challenges
A Veteran Politician with Global Aspirations
Throughout her decades-long political career, Takaichi has held several influential positions:
- Minister for Economic Security
- Minister of Internal Affairs
- Head of Gender Equality Policy (despite limited progressive initiatives)
She is closely aligned with former PM Shinzo Abe’s conservative legacy, and names Margaret Thatcher as her political idol.
Foreign Policy: Hawkish and Nationalist
Takaichi’s foreign policy stance is hardline, especially on regional disputes.
- Advocates for increased defense spending
- Supports nuclear fusion research and cybersecurity enhancements
- Frequently visits the controversial Yasukuni Shrine
- Takes a tough stance on China and a guarded approach to South Korea
- Open to working with far-right groups, potentially straining ties with the centrist Komeito coalition partner
Key Policy Priorities
Takaichi’s economic and national policy agenda includes:
- Fiscal stimulus to drive growth
- Tighter immigration controls
- Stronger emphasis on national defense and security technologies
What Takaichi’s Rise Means for Japan
While her election is historic, critics argue that her leadership may not advance women’s rights or progressive reforms in Japan. Instead, it may reinforce traditional norms under a more conservative rule.
