The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert compares taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
