Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
