The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in 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.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power
