PM Takaichi shuffles Japan's Cabinet to revive sagging support, keeps key Ministers
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reshuffled her Cabinet to address declining public support while retaining key ministers to ensure policy continuity. The administration remains focused on managing relations with the U.S. and addressing domestic economic challenges.
Why it matters
Cabinet stability in Japan is crucial for maintaining its strategic alliance with the U.S. and navigating complex economic pressures like inflation and currency fluctuations.
Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reshuffled her Cabinet on Thursday (September 17, 2026) in a bid to turn around her waning popularity, but retained key Ministers as she pursues stronger ties with the U.S .
Japan faces U.S. President Donald Trump's tough demands for bigger defence spending, more investment in America and measures to combat a weak yen .
The reshuffle is the first by the right-wing star of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) since she took office last October as Japan's first female leader in modern history. It's a widely used tactic by a Prime Minister to manage power balance within the party, policy priorities and public opinion.
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