Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
