Historic Election: Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan's First Woman Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan's first female Prime Minister, securing 237 votes in the Lower House. Facing economic challenges and internal party conflicts, she has formed an alliance with Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura to address key reforms. The coalition aims to reform Japan's political and social systems.

In a historic political milestone, Sanae Takaichi, President of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, was elected as the country's first female Prime Minister on Tuesday. Takaichi secured victory in the first round of parliamentary voting, amassing 237 votes, while her closest rival, Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, garnered 149 votes, as reported by Kyodo News.

At 64, Takaichi ascended to the prime ministerial office with clear challenges ahead, including reviving a sluggish economy and uniting a ruling party beset by scandals and internal strife. She quickly moved to establish a Cabinet even before her official election, showcasing her proactive leadership style.

In a strategic political move, Takaichi sealed a formal agreement with Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the Japan Innovation Party (JIP). The alliance focuses on key reforms like slashing the number of parliamentarians by 10 percent and overhauling the social security system. Additionally, the agenda includes JIP's proposal to make Osaka a 'secondary capital' alongside Tokyo, further strengthen the regions' collaborative stance. Despite the offer of ministerial roles to JIP members, apprehension remains evident. Former JIP leader Nobuyuki Baba reported that party members were not in favor of accepting Cabinet positions.

(With inputs from agencies.)