Japan set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be selected as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
