Japan set to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates 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 get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be selected as leader, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
