Key Facts
• On August 10, 1989, Toshiki Kaifu left his home with a smile, accompanied by his wife.
• The previous day, the House of Representatives elected Kaifu as Prime Minister, while the House of Councillors chose Takako Doi.
• The House of Representatives’ decision prevailed, making Kaifu the first Prime Minister born in the Showa era.
• Before the new cabinet’s inauguration, Kaifu expressed his determination with the statement, “It has begun. I am renewing my resolve.”
Summary
On August 10, 1989, Toshiki Kaifu, Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister, departed his home with a smile, supported by his wife. The day before, the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors had conducted the Prime Ministerial election, with Kaifu and Takako Doi as their respective choices. The House of Representatives’ decision took precedence, marking Kaifu as the first Prime Minister born in the Showa era. Ahead of his cabinet’s inauguration, Kaifu voiced his commitment to the role, signaling the start of a new chapter in Japanese politics.
