Japan set to choose female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor 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 various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
