Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition 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 leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
