Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part 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 opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
