Big Take Asia Podcast

Japan’s Takaichi Cements Power — But Can She Deliver on Her Promises?

Sanae Takaichi’s election gamble paid off. Now, the reality of governing begins. On today’s Big Take Asia: Unpacking the prime minister’s vision for Japan and hurdles ahead for her ambitious agenda.

Sanae Takaichi, Japan's prime minister and president of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), speaks to the media at the party's headquarters in Tokyo, on Feb. 8.Photographer: Toru Hanai/Bloomberg

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By Naomi Ng, K Oanh Ha, Yang Yang, and Eleanor Harrison-Dengate

February 10, 2026 at 8:50 PM UTC

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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi secured a historic election win, positioning her as the nation’s strongest leader in the postwar era.