Japan set to elect female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert compares taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
