The nation on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof 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, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
