Tokyo, Dec 4 (AP) — The mantra of Japan's first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, pledging to “work, work, work, work and work” for the country, has been declared the catchphrase of the year. This recognition highlights the effort Takaichi, an ultraconservative leader, made to ascend to Japan's top political position. She first voiced this commitment in October, upon being elected as the head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.
In Japan, which is well-known for its extensive working hours, particularly affecting working women who also manage homemaking and caregiving responsibilities, the topic of overwork is sensitive. The catchphrase's recognition drew mixed reactions; some perceived it as satirical. Upon accepting the accolade from a private committee recently, Takaichi clarified her intent, emphasizing her enthusiasm. “I am not encouraging others to overwork or suggesting extended hours as a virtue,” Takaichi stated, hoping there would be no misinterpretation.
In the short period since taking office in late October, Takaichi has already stirred tensions, particularly with Beijing, following remarks about potential Japanese military action in response to any Chinese assault on Taiwan.
While Takaichi's work ethic and commitment are notable, her sense of style has also captivated the public. Women are keen to emulate the prime minister’s attire, creating a phenomenon known as “Sana-katsu,” or rooting for Sanae. However, her hardline conservative policies might not receive the same level of admiration. Takaichi aims to regain the support of right-wing backers after the Liberal Democratic Party's substantial electoral losses under her more moderate predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba.
On October 4, during an address to party members, Takaichi vowed an unwavering commitment to revitalizing the struggling party and regaining public favor, exhorting lawmakers to “work like a horse.” She further added, “I will abandon the idea of work-life balance — I will work, work, work, work and work.” Her deliberate repetition of “work” made a lasting impression.
Takaichi’s demanding schedule and apparent lack of sufficient rest have raised concerns among fellow lawmakers. Notably, she convened an early morning meeting at 3 a.m. on the opening day of parliament, though she hasn’t repeated such early meetings. She revealed to MPs last month that she manages only two to four hours of sleep while also caring for her husband, who is recovering from a stroke, and acknowledged, “It's probably bad for my skin.” Takaichi finds solace in morning and evening hot tub sessions, which she describes as “blissful.”
Her status as a style icon has been bolstered by her choice of accessories, such as the “Sanae Bag,” a leather tote officially known as the Grace Delight Tote, made by the Tokyo-based Hamano Inc. Selling for 136,400 yen ($875), it’s the most popular it's been since its debut three decades ago, fueled by Takaichi’s ownership.
The bag, which Takaichi was seen carrying upon entering the prime minister's office on October 21, quickly went viral on social media. A representative from Hamano, Takanori Kobayashi, expressed delight at Japan's first female prime minister using their product, noting a surge in inquiries and orders. The demand has outpaced supply, requiring some customers to wait until August for their bag.
Another sought-after item is a sparkling light-pink pen, the Mitsubishi Pencil Co.'s Jetstream 4&1, known as the “Sanae Takaichi model.” Frequently out of stock, the pen is proudly showcased by those lucky enough to purchase one.
Takaichi’s appeal is often associated with figures like pop stars or athletes in Japan, but her widespread influence as a politician is unique. Namiko Kubo-Kawai, a psychology professor at Nagoya Shukutoku University, notes that Takaichi offers a new archetype of female role model, driven by her distinct political stature, not typically celebrated for femininity but for decisive leadership.
Despite her popularity in some circles, Takaichi’s conservative views, particularly supporting traditional family structures and opposing changes to the 19th-century law on married couples’ surnames, may not resonate with feminist groups. However, her role as the first female prime minister and as a stylish role model offers diverse representation, Kubo-Kawai suggests, indicating a broader evolution in female role models in Japan.
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