Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics 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 desire their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
