Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? 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 political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power