The nation set to choose female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
