The Japanese Diet has elected the country's next prime minister. Takaichi Sanae won the vote on Tuesday. It marks the first time in history that a woman will lead the country. She leads the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and will be launching a new coalition government with the Japan Innovation Party. Takaichi will take office after the Emperor appoints her Tuesday evening. Once that's complete, she is expected to hold a news conference, which will be her first as prime minister.
Takaichi will likely launch her Cabinet soon
NHK has learned that she tapped Koizumi Shinjiro as defense minister. He was her main opponent for the party's top spot. Another rival, Hayashi Yoshimasa, is expected to become the internal affairs and communications minister in her Cabinet.
She also decided to name former Secretary-General Motegi Toshimitsu as foreign minister. He too ran against her. Takaichi also decided to appoint Katayama Satsuki as finance minister. She once served as regional revitalization minister.
Following these appointments, Takaichi has decided to name Kihara Minoru as chief cabinet secretary.
LDP and JIP agreed to form coalition
Earlier on Monday, the LDP agreed to form a new coalition with the Japan Innovation Party, or JIP. They've agreed to cooperate on policies, including economic and fiscal, foreign, national security, and energy.It comes after the LDP has lost its longtime coalition partner Komeito earlier this month.
Takaichi said: "This day will be a starting point for us to strengthen the Japanese economy and transform Japan into a country that can take responsibility for future generations. I am looking forward to working together on this."
