Japan set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
