Japan on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique 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 manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength