The nation set to elect female prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says 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 intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
