Liberal Democratic Party Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai, right, speaks at a press conference in Tokyo on Aug. 24, 2021. (Kyodo)

       TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The No. 2 leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party said Tuesday he will meet with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Wednesday, with the two expected to discuss preparations for its leadership race and a general election in the coming months.

       Despite low public support for the Suga government reflecting dissatisfaction with its handling of the coronavirus pandemic, LDP Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai told a press conference that he supports the re-election of Suga as LDP president. Suga's term is set to expire on Sept. 30.

       "We will talk about the future of the party and the country," Nikai said.

       Suga has said he will run in the LDP's leadership race for another term. Being re-elected the ruling party chief would likely ensure he remains prime minister.

       The timing of the LDP presidential race and the general election, which is also looming with the term of the House of Representatives members running out on Oct. 21, has drawn attention to Japan's political landscape.

       LDP Diet affairs chief Hiroshi Moriyama also voiced support Tuesday for Suga, saying, "I'd like to back his re-election in light of his past achievements."

       The LDP is planning to hold its presidential election on Sept. 29, with campaigning starting on Sept. 17, party sources have said. It will finalize the schedule on Thursday.

       While speculation swirls over when Suga will dissolve the lower chamber of parliament for a general election, Nikai said, "The prime minister will make a decision after carefully assessing the upcoming situation."

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