Japan has elected its first-ever female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, following a parliamentary vote on October 21, Kyodo News reports. Backed by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its new coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), Takaichi succeeds Shigeru Ishiba amid shifting political alliances and the rise of multiparty dynamics.

Although the LDP-JIP bloc narrowly missed a majority in the lower house, Takaichi secured approval from both chambers after the opposition failed to unite behind a single contender. She later took the oath of office before Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

In her first press briefing as leader, the 64-year-old, self-professed fan of former British PM Margaret Thatcher, pledged to drive reform with confidence and determination, describing her administration as one “ready to decide and move forward.” Despite expectations of a gender-balanced cabinet, only three women—including Takaichi—were appointed out of 19 ministers. Among them is Satsuki Katayama, Japan’s first female finance minister, and Kimi Onoda, who now serves as economic security minister and oversees foreign policy matters.

To maintain continuity in trade negotiations with Washington, Takaichi named Ryosei Akazawa as trade minister. She also allocated senior roles to her four rivals from the October LDP leadership race, signalling a push for party cohesion. While no JIP members hold ministerial posts under the coalition terms, Takashi Endo of the JIP was appointed as one of Takaichi’s advisers. Notably, she appointed former Prime Minister Taro Aso to a senior leadership position in the LDP, further reinforcing continuity and experience in her administration.

Takaichi’s government faces a difficult balancing act as both coalition parties lack a majority in the upper house, meaning she must seek opposition support to advance key legislation. Her cabinet replaces Ishiba’s, which resigned after losing parliamentary dominance earlier this year.

The newly appointed prime minister is expected to make her diplomatic debut at ASEAN meetings in Malaysia later this week, followed by discussions with US President Donald Trump during his visit to Tokyo. She will also attend the APEC summit in South Korea at the end of the month.