Two women, political opposites, vying for Japan PM position

Takaichi (left) and Noda are the first women in 13 years seeking the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in Japan's upcoming election Photos: AP

The inclusion of two women among the four candidates vying to become the next prime minister seems like a big step forward for Japan's notoriously sexist politics. But their fate is in the hands of a conservative, mostly male governing party - and the leading female candidate has been criticised by observers for her right-wing gender policies.

Sanae Takaichi and Seiko Noda are the first women in 13 years seeking the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in an election this week. The winner is certain to become the next prime minister because of a parliamentary majority held by the LDP and its coalition partner.