The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
