Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert compares assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because 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 main political competition originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite financial power