Japan set to elect woman 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 top job to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from 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 prime minister, as soon as you're in power, 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 leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
