The nation on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
