In the face of discontent that has unseated incumbent parties and fueled populist movements around the world, Japan remains a bulwark of political stability.
The electoral victory of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the Feb. 8 snap election has moved the ruling Liberal Democratic Party from the uncertainty of minority rule to a position of historic strength, with a two-thirds majority in the Lower House. As Japan¡¯s first woman prime minister, Takaichi brings a fresh image to the party while offering the steady hand of the longest-ruling party among advanced democracies. The election result strengthens Japan against foreign coercion and creates an opportunity for global leadership.
What¡¯s often overlooked, especially overseas, is the extent to which Takaichi¡¯s personal appeal rests on her charismatic smile, forceful speaking style and a biography that highlights her middle-class background. On policy, she invokes the legacy of her mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, aligning herself with his reputation for economic revitalization and a strong foreign policy while distancing herself from the ¡°old boys¡¯ club¡± image associated with corruption and political dynasties.
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