The nation set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert compares assuming the nation's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
