The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
