Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
