Asia’s economic powerhouse, Japan, is poised to make history by potentially electing either its first female or youngest-ever prime minister. On Saturday, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will hold a vote to select its next president. The elected party leader, if securing the necessary majority in parliament, will become Japan’s next prime minister.
Five main contenders are competing for the LDP leadership. Leading the race are 64-year-old staunch conservative Sanae Takaichi and 44-year-old centrist politician Shinjiro Koizumi. Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi is also seen as a strong contender. The winner will succeed former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
This election marks a potential new chapter in Japanese politics, with the country possibly seeing its first female or youngest prime minister in history.
Sanae Takaichi, a close ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has hinted at a radical shift in Japan’s economic policies. She has pledged to double the size of the economy over the next decade through major government investments in new technologies, infrastructure, food production, and economic security. She has also indicated plans to revisit an old investment agreement signed with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Secretary Hayashi plan to provide tax relief to reduce household expenses, while reaffirming their commitment to maintaining current economic policies.
Current polls indicate a tight race. Takaichi enjoys popularity among grassroots party members, whereas Koizumi has strong backing from LDP lawmakers. If no candidate achieves a majority in the first round, a second round of voting will follow.
Political scientist Tina Buret notes that Koizumi is a leader capable of building consensus across parties, while Takaichi could inject new energy into Japan’s otherwise stagnant politics.
Analysts caution that regardless of who wins, the LDP faces significant challenges amid prolonged economic stagnation and political uncertainty, with public confidence in the ruling party declining. Experts view this election not merely as a leadership change, but as a pivotal moment that could shape Japan’s future direction.