Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as 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 restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power
