Sanae Takaichi has been formally reappointed as Japan’s prime minister, ten days after securing a decisive victory in the country’s snap lower house elections.
Okay News reports that Takaichi, 64, who became Japan’s first female premier in October, led her party to a two-thirds majority in the February 8 polls. Her renewed mandate is expected to fast-track key policy shifts, including stronger defence measures, economic reforms, and tighter national security strategies. She has pledged to reinforce Japan’s territorial protection and upgrade intelligence capabilities, with plans to establish a National Intelligence Agency.
Her security stance has drawn attention internationally, particularly regarding Taiwan. Takaichi previously suggested Japan could respond militarily if China attempts to seize Taiwan by force — comments that angered Beijing. China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, recently accused elements in Japan of seeking to “revive militarism.”
Domestically, Takaichi is also pushing constitutional reforms, possible revisions to the Imperial Household Law to address succession concerns, and stricter immigration rules. She is expected to propose suspending consumption tax on food for two years to ease inflation, although analysts warn this could strain Japan’s already high public debt. Her immediate priority, however, is securing parliamentary approval for the upcoming national budget before the new fiscal year begins in April.
