The nation set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because 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 originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays elusive despite economic strength
