Sanae Takaichi, a hardline conservative and outspoken security hawk, is set to become Japan’s first female prime minister, taking charge of the world’s fourth-largest economy at a moment of political uncertainty, inflationary strain, and growing regional tensions.

The 64-year-old former newscaster defeated four male contenders to win the leadership of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Saturday, marking her third attempt at the post. Her victory positions her to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who announced his resignation after a turbulent year in office that saw the LDP lose its coalition majority in both legislative chambers. Also Read | Japan’s Ruling Party Poised to Pick New Chief With Runoff Likely

Who is Sanae Takaichi?

Born in Nara, western J

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