Japan set to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
