Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the nation's top job 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 Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
