Takaichi Heads a New LDP Leadership Team of Party Heavyweights

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) first female leader, Sanae Takaichi, unveiled her new executive lineup on October 7, 2025. The appointments combine veteran powerbrokers and younger policy specialists, reflecting her aim to balance stability with renewal.

By drawing figures from both the influential Aso and Abe factions, she has signaled a commitment to party unity and pragmatic governance rooted in conservative principles.

Taro Aso — Vice President

Former Prime Minister Taro Aso (85) returns as LDP vice president, a position symbolizing both party continuity and strength. Speaking to reporters at the LDP headquarters on October 7, Takaichi said Aso would "represent the party in discussions concerning the Imperial Household Law," a matter she called "too important for the party to neglect."

Speaking on the news program Tora no Mon News (October 7), legal commentator Haruo Kitamura described Aso as "a ballast supporting the ship." He emphasized that Aso's political weight will shield Takaichi from factional turbulence. Political journalist Fumito Ishibashi added that Aso is already using his vast network to open channels with Komeito and other parties. "The groundwork for coalition cooperation is already being laid," he said.

Shunichi Suzuki — Secretary-General

Toshimitsu Suzuki (72), a member of Aso's faction and his brother-in-law, was named secretary-general. Takaichi praised him for his "broad connections" and said she admired his character and judgment. She personally described him as "someone respected by many in the party" and someone she "truly likes."

Ishibashi remarked that Suzuki is "no risk-taker, but a negotiator," predicting that his steady temperament will complement the more assertive style of Acting Secretary-General Koichi Hagiuda. Together, they form what Ishibashi called "a team designed for balance, order, and drive."

Haruko Arimura — General Council Chair

Takaichi appointed Haruko Arimura (55), a longtime ally and fellow conservative, as General Council chair. The two have been friends for years, but Takaichi emphasized that Arimura was chosen for her ability to "handle difficult issues with precision," citing her management of complex intra-party debates as head of the LDP joint Diet members' assembly.

According to an October 8 article in The Sankei Shimbun, Takaichi believes Arimura is "ideally suited" to oversee the council, describing her as both "trusted and precise." Her selection also fulfills Takaichi's campaign pledge to promote more women into leadership roles, a symbolic and practical move within a party often criticized for its male dominance.

Takayuki Kobayashi — Policy Research Council Chair

A former minister for economic security, Takayuki Kobayashi (50), brings youthful policy expertise to the new team. Though a rival in the leadership race, Kobayashi threw his support behind Takaichi after the first round of voting.

Takaichi described him as "one of the young members I respect most for policy insight." His role as Policy Research Council chair will allow him to rebuild the LDP's image as a party of ideas. Ishibashi noted that Kobayashi's appointment is "a signal to younger lawmakers that policy skill — not seniority — can earn influence under Takaichi."

Keiji Furuya — Election Strategy Committee Chair

Keiji Furuya (72), who served as Takaichi's official recommender in the leadership election, will head the Election Strategy Committee. Takaichi explained that Furuya's deep familiarity with local chapters made him indispensable: "He worries about branches without leaders, and his eye for detail will help rebuild our local foundations."

The Sankei Shimbun added that Furuya is "almost hobby-like in his passion for electoral math," a trait that will likely prove useful as the LDP prepares for national elections.

Hiroshi Kajiyama — Diet Affairs Committee Chair

Former industry minister Hiroshi Kajiyama (69) takes charge of the Diet Affairs Committee. Known for his calm demeanor and bipartisan credibility, Kajiyama has served as a senior Diet steering committee member and has Cabinet experience.

Takaichi said Kajiyama's independence — he has long remained unaffiliated with any faction — and "broad networks across party lines" made him an ideal fit. Kitamura commented that Kajiyama's "non-factional stance" will make him a "bridge-builder in a fragmented parliament."

Yoshitaka Shindo — Organizational Movement Headquarters Chief

Former Internal Affairs Minister Yoshitaka Shindo (67) assumes leadership of the LDP's Organizational and Movement Headquarters. Takaichi cited his "extensive knowledge of social realities" and ability to "listen to voices across many sectors."

According to Sankei, Shindo's job will be to reestablish the LDP's connection to civic groups and professional associations — areas the party has struggled to engage in recent years.

Koichi Hagiuda — Acting Secretary-General

A longtime Abe ally and one of Takaichi's most trusted associates, Koichi Hagiuda (62), joins as acting secretary-general. His appointment was made, Takaichi said, because "the secretary-general's duties are minute-by-minute," requiring someone who can handle an enormous flow of internal affairs while keeping an eye on younger lawmakers.

Kitamura acknowledged that Hagiuda's inclusion might raise eyebrows because of his association with past funding controversies. However, he emphasized that "Takaichi values loyalty and operational ability above optics." Ishibashi agreed, adding, "Hagiuda's presence ensures the party machine runs in rhythm with the president's own intentions."

Author: Daniel Manning