The nation on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
In fact, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays elusive despite financial power
