The nation on course to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power
