The phrase "succession battle" refers to a contest or conflict among people trying to claim or gain control over a position or title that becomes vacant when the previous holder steps down, retires, or passes away. Full definition
His sacking was the result of an increasingly bitter succession battle with Mugabe's wife Grace, who had been pushing to take over from the ageing leader. (nigeriapoliticsonline.com)
CIBC's management has been depleted through succession battles and leadership shuffles over the years. (thestar.com)
Herman: This is really more of a backhanded compliment, but I wanted more time to explore how Wakanda works when the country isn't locked in a vicious succession battle bordering on civil war. (theringer.com)