Japan set to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, 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 limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
