The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside 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 prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
