Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, 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 external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
