Japan set to elect female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the nation's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? This is partly because 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 comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
