The nation set to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert compares taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"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 remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
