Japan on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays elusive despite economic strength