**Biker, Drummer, and Japan’s Next PM: Who is Sanae Takaichi?**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 12:41 pm*
Sanae Takaichi, the former economic security minister, has won the leadership election of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The 64-year-old politician is now poised to become Japan’s first female Prime Minister.
### From Heavy Metal Drummer to Political Leader
Once known for playing the drums in a college heavy metal band, sporting pink hair, and having a passion for motorcycles, Takaichi has since shifted gears to focus on politics. Her early vibrant persona contrasts with her current image as a firm and pragmatic leader.
### Political Path and Influence
Takaichi is a close disciple of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who appointed her to key party positions during his tenure. She is a strong supporter of Abe’s economic policies, commonly referred to as “Abenomics,” and advocates for continued monetary easing and increased fiscal spending to stimulate growth.
Her election as LDP leader comes at a challenging time, as the party grapples with voter dissatisfaction amid inflation and a series of scandals.
### Hardline Stances on Immigration and Security
Central to Takaichi’s political identity are her tough positions on immigration and China’s military expansion in the Pacific. She emphasizes economic security and a strict approach to immigration and crime, aiming to address growing public concerns.
Notably, she has shown a willingness to challenge the United States if she believes that trade deals are unfair to Japan, reflecting her strong stance on protecting national interests.
### Gender Perspective: A Historic but Complex Figure
Though Takaichi’s ascension marks a historic milestone as Japan’s first female Prime Minister, analysts caution that she is not a feminist candidate in the traditional sense.
She opposes reforming the 19th-century law requiring married couples to share the same surname — a key issue for gender equality activists. However, she has pledged to improve gender balance within her cabinet to levels comparable to Nordic countries like Iceland, Finland, and Norway, thereby enhancing women’s representation in government.
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Sanae Takaichi’s leadership brings both tradition and change, combining firm nationalist policies with a symbolic breakthrough for women in Japanese politics. As she prepares to take office, the world watches to see how she will navigate Japan’s domestic challenges and its role on the global stage.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/biker-drummer-who-is-japan-s-next-pm-sanae-takaichi/story