Japanese ruling party dissidents on Wednesday claimed to have enough support to back a no-confidence vote against embattled Prime Minister Naoto Kan. Still, analysts believe Kan will probably survive.

The tide is running against the prime minister.

Naoto Kan is facing calls for his resignation -- from both opposition lawmakers, and even some members of his own ruling party.

Sadakazu Tanigaki, Leader of Opposition Liberal Democratic Party, said, "Prime Minister, why don't you just quit?"

That was said to be the opening line of a face-to-face debate between the opposition and the prime minister.

Naoto Kan's support rate is hovering below 30 percent.

He has been criticized for his handling of the radiation crisis at the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant, delays in construction of temporary housing for evacuees, and the lack of transparency in evacuation information.

But Kan has refused to quit, saying he needs to continue his responsibilities.

Naoto Kan, Japanese Prime Minister, said, "What is most sought by the people is for us to work together to achieve reconstruction and resolve the nuclear crisis, contain the contamination at the nuclear plant, and continue on a proper path."

The opposition filed a no-confidence motion in parliament, and is expected to vote on the motion in the lower house on Thursday.

They would need the backing of around 70 lawmakers from the ruling DPJ to succeed. But many analysts believe that might not be possible.

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