Why does Japan burn through prime ministers?
Here's a staggering statistic: Japan has had 14 prime ministers in 20 years. And, according to Tomomichi Amono, it could have yet another in September:
Goshi Hosono, deputy secretary general of the Democratic Party of Japan, left some room for speculation at a news conference Wednesday on what could happen at the ruling partyâ??s internal election to choose its new leader in September.Here is why we should listen to Mr. Hosono carefully. The 38-year-old lawmaker is a rising star within the ruling party, known for his expertise in economic policy issues. But more importantly, he is known as a close associate of Ichiro Ozawa, the powerful politician who presided over the DPJâ??s personnel matters until he was forced to step down as party secretary general in June.
In order to stay party president, and thereby prime minister, Naoto Kan must win approval of party members in the September election. And there is speculation in the media that Mr. Ozawa and his followers may choose their own candidate to run against Mr. Kan.
Asked about pressure from within the party to make Mr. Kan step down, Mr. Hosono said he believes that DPJ members want to avoid what happened during previous governments, when the head of the state changed frequently. â??There was a common understanding within the DPJ that we donâ??t want to do the same thing,â? he said.
However, Mr. Hosono suggested a change in party leadership is possible in September. â??A suitable leader emerging (as the result of the election) is not a bad thing,â? he said. â??It will be preferable for the DPJ if discussion is actively conducted (ahead of the elections).
RCW contributor Todd Crowell explored why Japan burns through prime ministers here.
(Current - for now - Prime Minister Naoto Kan. AP Photo)
