Who is Japan’s New Female Prime Minister?

Key Concepts

• San Takichi: Japan's first female Prime Minister.
• Liberal Democratic Party (LDP): Ruling political party in Japan.
• Kato: Coalition partner that left the LDP.
• Hardline conservative: Political ideology characterized by strict adherence to traditional values and policies.
• Japanese nationalist: Individual who strongly supports their country's interests and culture.
• Shinzo Abe: Former Prime Minister of Japan and close ally of Donald Trump.
• US-Japan Alliance: Bilateral relationship between the United States and Japan.
• Hawk on China: A person or government that holds a strong, assertive stance against China.
• Sumo wrestling: Traditional Japanese sport.
• Do-yo: The sumo ring.

San Takichi Appointed Japan's First Female Prime Minister

San Takichi has been confirmed as Japan's new Prime Minister, following her election as leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) earlier in the month. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Japanese politics, a field historically dominated by men for decades.

Challenges in Securing Leadership

Takichi's path to the premiership was not without its obstacles. The LDP's coalition partner, Kato, which had been in partnership with the LDP for 26 years, withdrew from the coalition. This departure left Takichi needing to secure sufficient votes to be confirmed as Prime Minister, a challenge she ultimately overcame.

Takichi's Political Stance and International Relations

Takichi is described as a hardline conservative and a Japanese nationalist. She was a close ally of the late Shinzo Abe, who maintained a strong relationship with former US President Donald Trump, including playing golf together and being one of Trump's closest allies on the world stage. Takichi is noted to have an ideological affinity with Trump.

The hope in Tokyo is that these connections and Takichi's stance will strengthen the alliance between Tokyo and Washington. Similar to the US President, Takichi is characterized as a "hawk on China." Her appointment is anticipated to potentially "ruffle a few feathers in Beijing." As a Japanese nationalist, she may not express the same level of apology for Japan's conduct during World War II as China might prefer.

Navigating Traditional Customs: The Sumo Wrestling Cup

A unique challenge Takichi may face as Prime Minister involves the Prime Minister's Cup for sumo wrestling. Traditionally, the trophy is presented by the Prime Minister himself. However, a significant hurdle exists: as a woman, Takichi is technically not allowed to enter the sumo ring, the "do-yo," where the wrestling takes place. This raises questions about how she will present the cup, whether she will delegate the task to someone else, or utilize a proxy, and who that individual might be. These are some of the interesting traditions she will need to navigate as Japan's first female Prime Minister.

Conclusion

San Takichi's ascension to Prime Minister is a historic event for Japan, breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated political landscape. Her hardline conservative and nationalist views, coupled with her past associations, suggest a potential strengthening of the US-Japan alliance and a firm stance on China. However, she will also need to contend with traditional customs, such as the presentation of the sumo wrestling cup, which present unique logistical and symbolic challenges due to her gender.