Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan’s first female prime minister — a historic milestone. Known for her ultra-conservative views and admiration for heavy metal music, Takaichi is a long-time member of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
A vocal supporter of Uyghur human rights, Takaichi has frequently attended events organized by the Japan Uyghur Association and the World Uyghur Congress. Speaking at a meeting on Uyghur forced labor in May, she said: “This is a human rights issue. Japan should adopt a law similar to that of the United States.”
Since first entering parliament in 1993, Takaichi has served ten terms and held key cabinet positions, including Minister of Internal Affairs and Minister for Economic Security under former prime ministers Shinzo Abe and Fumio Kishida.
After becoming LDP leader earlier this month, she was officially elected prime minister by Japan’s parliament. Analysts describe her as one of the most conservative figures in Japanese politics, known for her tough stance on China and admiration for Margaret Thatcher.
