Japan on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen over ten prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares assuming the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
