Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan 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 political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
