Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first

Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten leaders.

In fact, a specialist compares assuming the nation's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".

But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.

The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.

"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."

Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover

  • Single-party rule limits outside challenges
  • Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
  • The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
  • Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
Michael Robbins
Michael Robbins

A passionate horticulturist with over 10 years of experience in organic gardening and landscape design.