Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because 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 inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
