The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
