Japan set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor 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, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
