Japan set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains 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.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be selected as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite economic strength
