TOKYO, Oct. 20, 2025 — Japan’s political landscape shifted dramatically on Monday as the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) announced it would back Sanae Takaichi, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) leader, in her bid for prime minister. The move all but guarantees her election in parliament, making her the first woman to hold Japan’s highest political office.
Coalition Dynamics
Ishin co‑leader and Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura confirmed the party’s support, saying, “I told Takaichi that we should move forward together.” He and fellow co‑leader Fumitake Fujita are expected to finalize the alliance in talks with Takaichi later today.
The LDP, though dominant, fell short of an outright majority in the lower house. Ishin’s decision to align with the ruling party provides the necessary votes to secure Takaichi’s premiership, ending weeks of speculation over coalition negotiations.
Market and Political Impact
The announcement immediately reverberated through financial markets, with Tokyo stocks hitting record highs on expectations of political stability and pro‑business policies. Analysts say Ishin’s backing reflects a convergence of conservative priorities, particularly on economic security, defense, and constitutional reform.
Historic Moment
Takaichi, long regarded as a hardline conservative within the LDP, has built her career on strong stances regarding national security and economic resilience. Her rise to the premiership marks a historic moment in Japanese politics, breaking a gender barrier that has stood since the country’s postwar democratic system was established.
Looking Ahead
With Ishin’s support, Takaichi is expected to be formally elected prime minister in a parliamentary vote this week. Observers note that her leadership will be tested immediately by challenges including sluggish economic growth, demographic decline, and regional security tensions.
Summary: Backed by the Japan Innovation Party, Sanae Takaichi is set to become Japan’s first female prime minister, a development that cements a new conservative coalition and signals a historic shift in the nation’s political landscape.
Sanae Takaichi Picture from heute.at
Sources: CNBC; The Straits Times; Reuters CNBC The Straits Times Yahoo News UK.
