Tokyo, Japan — Japan has elected its first-ever female prime minister, marking a historic milestone for the country’s male-dominated politics.
Major conservative Sanae Takaichi won the parliamentary, securing 237 votes in the Lower House, enough to clinch victory in the 465-seat chamber.
Takaichi, a member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, sealed her win after a coalition deal with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party.
According to reports, her election signals a possible shift to the right on issues like immigration and social policies.
Meanwhile, international analysts say Takaichi’s government is also expected to focus on reviving Japan’s slowing economy.
She will officially take office Tuesday evening, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned last month following election losses.
She is Japan’s 104th prime minister.