Japan set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert compares taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power
