Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up 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 "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
