Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
