Japan set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the nation's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
