Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power
