The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
