Japan may get its first female PM as Sanae Takaichi leads LDP race, with result due Oct. 4, 2025.

Japan may appoint its first female prime minister as Sanae Takaichi leads the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s leadership race, with the outcome expected by October 4, 2025. A conservative politician and former economic security minister, Takaichi is gaining support by shifting toward family-friendly policies, though she lacks a political dynasty like rival Shinjiro Koizumi. Her candidacy marks a potential milestone in a country where women hold a small share of parliamentary seats and rank low in global gender equality rankings. The race reflects broader debates on political continuity, gender representation, and leadership under economic and legislative challenges.