Japan set to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power
