Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
