Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
