🔗 Share this article The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers. In fact, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job 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 Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan. The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from external parties. "Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position." "Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as 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 limits outside challenges Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position" Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power