Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
