The nation on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
