Japan set to elect female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape 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 get the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
