Tokyo: Japan has made history by electing Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister following a decisive vote in the lower house of parliament on Tuesday. Takaichi, a hardline conservative and long-time ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, secured 237 votes in the 465-seat chamber, surpassing the majority needed to assume office.

Her victory comes after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) formed a coalition with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, ensuring sufficient parliamentary support. Takaichi is expected to be approved by the less-powerful upper house and sworn in as Japan’s 104th prime minister later Tuesday evening, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned last month following election losses.

Takaichi’s leadership marks a historic breakthrough in Japan, a country where women remain significantly underrepresented in politics. While celebrated as a symbolic milestone for gender equality, her premiership is expected to steer the nation further to the right, particularly on immigration and social issues.

Economically, Takaichi’s policies reflect the conservative, pro-growth stance of her predecessor, prioritizing government spending to stimulate the economy amid rising inflation. Financial markets have responded optimistically, though analysts warn that Japan’s high national debt and demographic challenges could complicate long-term economic recovery.

Her election underscores Japan’s evolving political landscape, signaling both a historic advancement for women in leadership and a shift toward more conservative governance.