Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"So even though 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."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
