Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace 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 comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
