Sanae Takaichi becomes Japan’s first female PM, ending political crisis
The LDP chief, who heads a fragile coalition, faces multiple challenges including tackling inflation and holding talks with Trump
Ishiba, who lasted only one year as prime minister, resigned with his cabinet earlier in the day, paving the way for his successor.
Takaichi won 237 votes – four more than a majority – compared to 149 won by Yoshikoko Noda, head of the largest opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, in the lower house, which elects the prime minister.
Even though her coalition was two seats short of a majority, Takaichi received enough votes to win in the first round. She likely received votes from lawmakers in fringe minority parties from whom she has sought cooperation.
As the results were announced, Takaichi stood up and bowed deeply.