🔗 Share this article The nation set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten leaders. In fact, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup". However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan. The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups. "Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to secure the top job." "So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again." Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover One-party dominance limits external competition Party infighting fuel power struggles The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position" Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength