Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
