Japan set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
