The nation set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within 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 secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
