Japan set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
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 Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition 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 faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains elusive despite economic strength
