Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently told parliament that her daily routine includes an additional three to four hours dedicated to personal tasks compared to her male predecessors. "In the morning, I shower, prepare breakfast, then wash dishes, not to mention putting on makeup," she stated on 14/10. This revelation highlights the unique challenges she faces as Japan's first female prime minister.

Takaichi, who took office in 10/2025, has openly described herself as a workaholic. She has previously mentioned sleeping only two to four hours nightly and sometimes schedules meetings with staff as early as 3 am. In a July post on X, she shared that she often "works diligently until dawn to thoroughly read documents brought from the office and those related to parliamentary questioning."

Despite her dedication, Takaichi acknowledged the strain of her demanding schedule. "'I truly enjoy reading stacks of documents brought home at midnight,' she added in parliament. 'However, I find it difficult to soberly concentrate on the country's future direction or a grand vision for the nation'." This suggests that the extensive time spent on administrative and personal duties may limit her capacity for broader strategic thinking.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi speaks before parliament on 14/10. Photo: AFP

Takaichi's experience sheds light on the broader issue of women's representation in Japanese politics, which has historically been low. In the most recent Lower House election in February, only 68 women secured seats out of a total of 465, underscoring the gender disparity in the political landscape.

The discussion surrounding Takaichi's time management arose after a ruling coalition member questioned the extensive hours Japanese prime ministers typically spend in parliamentary sessions. Japanese leaders often dedicate five to seven hours daily to respond to opposition lawmakers' inquiries or attend these sessions.

Member of Parliament Fumitake Fujita of the Japan Innovation Party further emphasized this concern by citing a study. The research indicated that in 2022, Japanese prime ministers participated in parliamentary sessions for 72 days, significantly more than the 50 days in the United Kingdom and 13 days in Germany. He asserted, "The country's leader being tied up in parliament for so many hours is not consistent with international standards."

By Huyen Le (AFP)