Japan on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
