Political comms gets personal in Japan 🇯🇵

Think of traditional Japanese politics and politicians, and a host of monochromatic words and images may come to mind. Colour and clarity probably do not. Yet those are two of the new prime minister's hallmarks. Sanae Takaichi's straight-talking, no-nonsense personal style has the potential to renew interest in politics among a disconnected generation of voters. It could also change the way other politicians address their stakeholders — for better or worse.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has only lost power twice in Japan's post-war history, but that doesn't mean that it has kept voters inspired. It has long been seen as the 'realistic' choice, a bit like the adage that no-one ever got fired for buying IBM. With Takaichi's arrival, it has suddenly become much less boring.

This post is for subscribers only

Become a member to get access to all content

Subscribe now