Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in 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.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own clique to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
