The nation set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
