Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens assuming the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
