Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
