Japan set to choose female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays elusive despite financial power
