Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
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 Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
