Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
