Japan set to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry originates inside 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 top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
