Sanae Takaichi Reappointed Japan PM After Landslide Win

Japan’s Sanae Takaichi was formally reappointed prime minister after her decisive victory in snap lower house elections held on February 8. The 64-year-old leader, who became Japan’s first female premier in October, secured a two-thirds majority for her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), consolidating her authority in the more powerful chamber of Parliament.

Takaichi’s renewed mandate strengthens her political standing at a time of economic strain and heightened regional tensions. She formed her second Cabinet shortly after her formal reappointment, signalling continuity in her policy priorities.

Two-Thirds Supermajority and Its Impact

The LDP’s two-thirds control of the 465-seat lower house grants Takaichi significant legislative leverage. A supermajority enables the ruling bloc to dominate key parliamentary committees and override bills rejected by the upper house, where the coalition lacks a majority. This advantage positions the government to advance defence, fiscal and constitutional agendas with fewer procedural hurdles.

Defence Expansion and Constitutional Goals

Takaichi has pledged to bolster Japan’s military capabilities and expand defence spending amid growing security concerns in East Asia. She has advocated stronger deterrence measures and greater arms exports. Her long-term ambition includes revising Japan’s post-war pacifist Constitution, drafted under United States supervision after World War II. However, domestic priorities such as rising prices, demographic decline and social welfare pressures may slow constitutional reform efforts.

China, Taiwan and Regional Tensions

The prime minister has taken a firm stance on China, including remarks suggesting possible Japanese action if Beijing moves militarily against Taiwan. Such comments have drawn diplomatic criticism and economic responses from China. Takaichi has also indicated support for visiting Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine, a move that often provokes objections from neighbouring countries over historical sensitivities.

Important Facts for Exams

• Japan follows a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system.
• The National Diet consists of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors.
• Article 9 of Japan’s Constitution renounces war as a sovereign right.
• Yasukuni Shrine commemorates Japan’s war dead, including convicted wartime leaders.

Strengthening US-Japan Economic Security Ties

Takaichi has expressed interest in deepening cooperation with the United States, particularly in economic security and rare earths development. She plans to visit Washington next month to enhance bilateral ties. As regional competition intensifies, Tokyo is seeking to balance economic resilience with strategic partnerships while maintaining its global trade relationships.