Sanae Takaichi, of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is likely to serve as the nation's next Prime Minister. The 64-year-old political mogul is often compared with Margaret Thatcher.
Political roots and rise
Since entering the parliament in 1993 from Nara, Takaichi has served in senior posts, including minister for internal affairs, economic security, and gender equality. She was the protégé of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
“Now that the LDP has its first female president, its scenery will change a little,” she said after her election, drawing applause and scrutiny over how much real change she might bring, as per The Hindu.
Work ethic and leadership style
Takaichi is known to have long been done away with the concept of work-life balance and is an icon of tireless discipline. Her vow of wanting to “work, work, work and work” has blown up on social media platforms of Japan and was operative in solidifying her image as a hardworking individual who puts to fore duty before rest.
As LDP faces voter fatigue, observers have commented that her leadership might just be what the party requires at this moment. It might reinvigorate the strength of the system, but at the same time, it is said that her approaches may give way to deepen the perceptions of existing rigidity within the party itself.
Controversies and conservative stance
Takaichi has been clear with what she supports. The motorbike enthusiast and a former heavy-metal drummer openly is in opposition to same sex marriage and upholds male-only imperial succession. The self-claimed workaholic also rejects the reforms that push for couples to have separate surnames. Strain in ties with China and South Korea seems to be on the bay due to her frequent visits to the Yasukuni Shrine.
Critics have been straight in their disapproval, that even though she is a prominent supporter of the representation of women in her cabinet, her tenure may see the strengthening of the traditionalist LDP vision instead of challenging it.
