Japan on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power