The nation on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", 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, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite economic strength
