PM says housework makes her busier than male predecessors

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan recently revealed that she devotes "three or four more hours" compared to her male predecessors to handle household chores in addition to her demanding schedule. Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister, shared her morning routine, which includes bathing, preparing breakfast, washing dishes, and applying makeup. She feels she spends significantly more time on these tasks than her male counterparts.

Acknowledging the prevalence of rigid gender roles in Japan and the underrepresentation of women in politics, Takaichi's comments on time management emerged during a discussion about the extensive hours prime ministers typically work. A ruling coalition member inquired about the rigorous parliamentary sessions that prime ministers attend. It is common for Japanese leaders to spend 5 to 7 hours a day in parliamentary debates.

Lawmaker Fumitake Fujita of the Japan Innovation Party cited a study indicating that Japan's prime minister attended parliamentary sessions for 72 days in 2022, compared to 50 days in the UK and 13 in Germany. Fujita expressed concern that the prolonged parliamentary commitment for Japan's leader is not in line with global standards.

Takaichi admitted to being "consumed until dawn" with work and parliamentary questioning, reflecting on a post she made on X in July. While she enjoys delving into documents late into the night, she finds it challenging to concentrate and think clearly about the future direction of Japan or her vision for the country, a sentiment she expressed on Wednesday.