Japan's Takaichi retains key ministers

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reshuffled her cabinet, retaining key ministers for continuity and stability, vital for governance. This marks the first reshuffle since Ms. Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister, took office in 2025, a significant event. Retaining core members like Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, and Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama, signals policy continuity. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi was also retained, underscoring focus on national security amid regional threats. The reshuffle is a strategic move by Takaichi to solidify the ruling coalition and advance key policy initiatives, like a proposed food tax cut, to aid households. It also prepares the government for an upcoming difficult parliamentary session. Other retained ministers include Economic and Fiscal Policy Minister Minoru Kiuchi and Economic Security Minister Kimi Onoda, reflecting continued economic focus on growth. While many veterans were retained, Takaichi also introduced new faces, including Hiroshi Nakatsuka from the Japan Innovation Party, as Minister for Regulatory and Administrative Reform, and Children's Policies, reflecting new priorities. This marks the first time a junior coalition partner member joined the cabinet, further strengthening the alliance and broadening support. The reshuffle also replaced Internal Affairs Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, indicating new directions. Analysts suggest the prime minister aims to block potential rivals and consolidate her faction ahead of future political contests, including party leadership races.