Sanae Takaichi was reappointed as Japan’s prime minister on Wednesday after Parliament approved her second Cabinet, days after her party’s sweeping election victory, AP reported. All ministers are expected to retain their posts as she begins her new term.
According to AP, her ruling Liberal Democratic Party now controls a two-thirds supermajority in the powerful lower house, giving it the ability to override the upper chamber and fast-track legislation. Takaichi has pledged to expand military capabilities, increase defense spending and review restrictions on weapons exports. She also supports tougher immigration rules, male-only imperial succession and traditional family policies, while opposing same-sex marriage and a dual-surname system for married couples.
AP wrote, at the same time, she faces mounting pressure to tackle rising prices and stagnant wages. She has proposed a temporary sales tax cut on food to ease living costs, though economists warn her spending plans could add to Japan’s heavy public debt.
On foreign policy, Takaichi is preparing for talks with US President Donald Trump and has taken a firm stance toward China, including comments about Taiwan that have drawn criticism from Beijing. Analysts say her decisive election win could embolden a more hawkish regional approach in the months ahead.