The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
