Japan may soon see a historic leadership shift as Sanae Takaichi, leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), moves closer to becoming the country&rsquo;s first female prime minister. Her path to power reopened after reports surfaced that the LDP and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) are set to form a coalition government early next week.
The agreement between Takaichi and JIP chief Hirofumi Yoshimura is expected to be signed on Monday, reigniting her stalled bid for the top job. &ldquo;The LDP has entrusted Takaichi with handling the coalition matter,&rdquo; local reports said, as JIP prepares for a final vote of approval from its lawmakers in Osaka.
The deal follows a political crisis triggered by the departure of the Komeito party, the LDP&rsquo;s junior partner for over 26 years. The new alliance with JIP, while still two seats short of a clear majority, could pave the way for Takaichi&rsquo;s election as early as Tuesday. If a run-off occurs, she would only need to secure more parliamentary votes than her rival candidate.
Takaichi&rsquo;s expected rise comes just ahead of US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s visit to Japan, setting the stage for high-stakes diplomacy before the upcoming APEC summit. If elected, she would not only break Japan&rsquo;s political glass ceiling but also mark a defining moment for women in leadership across Asia.

Japan Poised for First Woman Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi’s coalition deal revives her bid to become Japan’s first female PM

Japan Poised for First Woman Prime Minister

Sanae Takaichi’s coalition deal revives her bid to become Japan’s first female PM

October 19, 2025 | 17:33 IST