Japan set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
