Japan set to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
Actually, a specialist likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power