Japan on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power
