Will Japan's Former Minister Sanae Takaichi Compete for LDP Leadership?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a pivotal move for Japan's political landscape, former Internal Affairs Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced her candidacy for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party leadership election. This decision sets the stage for a competitive race for Prime Minister, with multiple notable contenders stepping forward. Can Takaichi become Japan's first female PM?
Key Takeaways
- Sanae Takaichi aims to become Japan's first female PM.
- The LDP leadership election is set for October 4.
- Other notable candidates include Yoshimasa Hayashi and Shinjiro Koizumi.
- Takaichi emphasizes turning anxieties into hope through politics.
- The election timeline was accelerated due to Ishiba's resignation.
Tokyo, Sep 18 (NationPress) Sanae Takaichi, a former minister of Internal Affairs in Japan, declared her intention to participate in the upcoming leadership election of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Thursday. This announcement finalizes the lineup of prominent candidates vying for the position of Japan's Prime Minister, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba.
Takaichi, who aspires to be Japan's first female PM, conveyed her decision to run in the presidential election scheduled for October 4 during a meeting with former Prime Minister Taro Aso, as reported by Japan's leading news agency, Kyodo News.
The 64-year-old Takaichi is recognized for sharing the national security views of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, positioning her as a key candidate alongside Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former PM Junichiro Koizumi, who is currently the Minister of Agriculture.
In her remarks to the press, she stated, “What is needed now is politics that can turn our anxieties about life and the future into hope.” A press conference to outline her policies is set for Friday.
Along with Takaichi, five other candidates are anticipated to participate in the LDP leadership race: Yoshimasa Hayashi, the Chief Cabinet Secretary; Toshimitsu Motegi, a former Foreign Minister; and Takayuki Kobayashi, a former economic security minister.
Though the election was initially scheduled for 2027, it has been expedited following Ishiba's announcement in August of his resignation due to the LDP's defeat in the House of Councillors election on July 20.
On September 16, Yoshimasa Hayashi also revealed his candidacy for the LDP leadership, while Shinjiro Koizumi and Takayuki Kobayashi have indicated their intentions to join the race.
In a social media post, Hayashi stated, “I will draw on all of my experience and achievements to lead a new government that delivers both stability and growth,” while pledging to maintain momentum on wage increases outpacing living costs during a press conference.
Hayashi has held various ministerial roles, including foreign, defense, education, and agriculture, and maintains a close relationship with former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of Takaichi's candidacy in the context of Japan’s evolving political landscape. Her aspirations highlight the increasing role of women in leadership and reflect the urgent need for a government that addresses the concerns of its citizens.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sanae Takaichi?
Sanae Takaichi is Japan's former Internal Affairs minister and is now a candidate for the leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party.
What is the significance of the LDP leadership election?
The LDP leadership election is crucial as it determines the next Prime Minister of Japan, influencing national policies and governance.
When is the LDP leadership election scheduled?
The LDP leadership election is scheduled for October 4.
Who are the other candidates in the LDP leadership race?
Other candidates include Yoshimasa Hayashi, Toshimitsu Motegi, and Takayuki Kobayashi.
What are Takaichi's political views?
Takaichi shares national security views similar to those of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
