Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
