Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten leaders.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
