The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power