Japan set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside 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 chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
