Japan’s LDP Candidate Pushes Gender, Immigration Reform

Sanae Takaichi, a contender for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership, aims to reshape Japan’s cabinet with a focus on gender balance.

Speaking on September 22, 2025, she promised to appoint women at levels matching Nordic nations like Iceland and Norway.

A win on October 4 could make her Japan’s first woman prime minister, subject to parliamentary vote.

Tackling Gender Inequality

Japan ranks 118th out of 148 in the 2025 global gender gap index, with women holding only two of 20 seats in the current cabinet of outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down on September 7.

Just 15% of lower house lawmakers are women. Takaichi, known for conservative views, plans bold, inclusive picks to shift this trend.

Managing Immigration

Takaichi addressed concerns about Japan’s rising number of foreign residents, which some find unsettling.

While supporting tourism and foreign workers for an aging population, she stressed measured immigration.

“I’ll create policies for peaceful coexistence with foreigners,” she said, prioritizing social harmony.

Rival Candidates’ Plans

Shinjiro Koizumi, a 44-year-old favorite, focused on public worries about illegal foreign labor and safety risks, prioritizing economic relief to ease rising costs.

Toshimitsu Motegi, 69, promised a younger cabinet with 30% women. Other candidates include Yoshimasa Hayashi and Takayuki Kobayashi.

LDP’s Challenges

The LDP, ruling Japan nearly continuously since 1955, lost its parliamentary majority recently. Analyst Junichi Takase said the party struggles to connect with younger voters.

“The LDP needs a fresh approach to survive,” he noted. The next leader, likely Japan’s fifth prime minister in five years, faces a complex political scene.

READ ALSO:

Iran-EU Nuclear Talks Stall: Sanctions Loom as Deadline Nears