The nation set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
