Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
