TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) picked hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi as its head on Saturday, putting her on course to become the country’s first female prime minister.

For most of the post-war period, the pick for LDP president was a shoo-in for the premiership because it held the majority in parliament, either on its own or with a coalition partner.

The LDP-led coalition lost its majority in both houses of parliament in elections over the past year, but the party remains the biggest in the more powerful lower chamber, meaning Takaichi’s chances of becoming the premier are almost certain.

Lawmakers are expected to choose the new prime minister in mid-October.

PARLIAMENT VOTES

Based on precedent, the more powerful lower house will first vote on it

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