Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
