The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
