The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
