Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba Resigns, Sanae Takaichi Set to Become Japan’s New Leader
Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba and his cabinet resign on October 21, 2025. Sanae Takaichi likely to take charge as Japan’s next Prime Minister after Diet vote.
PM Shigeru Ishiba (PC- Social Media)
In Tokyo, a major change took place today as Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba officially resigned along with his entire cabinet. The resignation came after just over a year in office. The cabinet meeting was held early morning around 9 a.m. local time, where all ministers submitted their resignation letters. This marks the end of Ishiba’s short yet eventful administration.
The move sets the stage for Japan’s parliament, known as the Diet, to choose a new leader. Later today, both houses will meet to vote for the next Prime Minister.
Sanae Takaichi Expected to Be the New Prime Minister
According to reports, Sanae Takaichi, president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is expected to win the vote easily. She has gained support from the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin no Kai) after forming a new coalition. The earlier alliance partner, Komeito, recently withdrew, forcing LDP to find new support.
After the vote, Takaichi will immediately begin forming her new cabinet. The Chief Cabinet Secretary will later announce the names of her ministers officially. Takaichi is also likely to address the nation soon after taking office to share her government’s goals and future policy plans.
A Coalition with Challenges Ahead
Though Takaichi is all set to become Japan’s next Prime Minister, her path may not be simple. Her new coalition does not have a clear majority in both houses of the parliament. This means her government will need help from smaller opposition groups to pass laws. Many political observers believe this could lead to a fragile administration that may face constant pressure from rivals.
What to Expect from Takaichi’s Leadership
At 64 years old, Sanae Takaichi is known for her strong conservative beliefs. She is one of the few women in Japanese politics who has risen this high but has often resisted progressive reforms. She has clearly opposed same-sex marriage and supports male-only imperial succession, which means she prefers keeping the traditional rule that only men can inherit the throne.
She also disagrees with proposals allowing married couples to have separate surnames. Her leadership style is expected to follow Japan’s traditional conservative politics. Many analysts say she will rely heavily on Taro Aso’s close allies, as he remains one of the most powerful figures within the ruling LDP.
Political Scene in Japan on October 21
This change in leadership comes after a busy political week in Japan. On Friday, both ruling and opposition parties agreed to conduct the election today, October 21. The timing aligns with the start of an extraordinary parliamentary session. For many citizens, today marks a significant turning point, as Japan prepares for a possible shift in both tone and policy direction.
The world is also watching closely, since Takaichi’s government could influence Japan’s future ties with key global players like the United States, China, and India. Her conservative approach may strengthen defense and national security policies while keeping economic reforms more gradual.
A Day of Political Transition
As Ishiba steps down quietly, many remember him as a calm but cautious leader who took charge in a difficult time. His exit now makes way for Takaichi, whose leadership will be tested almost immediately. The next few weeks will reveal how smoothly this transition happens and how Japan’s new government plans to balance political stability with progress.
For now, all eyes in Tokyo are set on the parliamentary vote and the upcoming cabinet announcement that will decide Japan’s new direction.