Japan set to choose female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power
