Japan set to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite financial power
