Japan PM Sanae Takaichi Felt ‘A Little Lonely’ After Staff Removed Her Cockroach Friend

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi revealed an unexpected side to her solitary working routine over the weekend, disclosing on social media that she tolerated-and eventually missed-a cockroach inside her official residence. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), the prime minister explained that her refusal to kill the insect stemmed from a childhood appreciation for manga and a belief in the concept of reincarnation. The post, which details her long working hours away from the central government offices, has drawn significant attention online.

A Childhood Manga and the Cycle of Reincarnation

Explaining why she allowed the insect to remain in her living quarters, Takaichi cited the influence of Osamu Tezuka’s classic manga series Firebird (Hi no Tori), which deeply explores themes of life, death, and reincarnation. "I thought things like, 'Maybe this life is also part of that long cycle of reincarnation,' and for a while, I endured it, hoping it would somehow leave on its own," Takaichi wrote. Who Is Sanae Takaichi? Key Facts About Shinzo Abe’s Protégé Set To Become Japan’s First Female Prime Minister.

The prime minister noted that she has long been unable to bring herself to harm insects. However, after she mentioned the unwanted guest to her secretarial staff, they expressed concern over hygiene and promptly arranged to have the residence treated. "After that, the cockroaches stopped appearing," she added. "I felt relieved, but also a little lonely, or maybe sad..."

Solitary Work Hours and Social Media Directness

The personal reflection came as part of a series of posts in which Takaichi addressed questions about her intense workload and her preference for operating out of the official prime ministerial residence. Known for a demanding schedule that includes working late nights and weekends, Takaichi stated that conducting meetings and document reviews at home minimizes the administrative burden on security personnel and support staff.

Reports indicate that Takaichi frequently spends full weekends inside the residence working alone, a habit that sets her apart from previous administration leaders.

Public Reaction and Political Context

Takaichi’s candid social media style has routinely bypassed traditional press channels to connect directly with the public, a strategy that helped solidify her party's standing during recent elections. Japan PM Sanae Takaichi Experiences Indian Culture, Tries Playing Santoor Musical Instrument (Watch).

While her comments regarding the cockroach were intended as a lighthearted commentary on her late-night work environment, the anecdote quickly went viral. Observers note that while supporters view the post as a glimpse into her human side and grueling routine, critics have questioned the imagery of a head of state sharing space with household pests.

Despite the mixed reactions, the incident highlights Takaichi's distinct public relations approach and the unusual realities of life inside the prime minister's historic compound.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 25, 2026 10:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).