Japan on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
