Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite financial power
