Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda retained the leadership of the Democratic Party of Japan on Friday in the party presidential election, remaining as Japan's premier despite low public support for the DPJ and the possibility he may be forced to dissolve the House of Representatives soon.

Noda, who easily defeated three challengers, has expressed his willingness to carry out a Cabinet reshuffle and take steps to shore up the economy, with the aim of restoring the popularity of his government in the run-up to a general election that must be held within a year.

But with public support for the ruling party low and distrust of other major parties allowing a new political force to gain momentum, it could be difficult for Noda to prevent the DPJ from losing the power it first gain in 2009.

Noda won 818 points in the presidential election, with the four candidates having fought for a majority from 1,231 points, including votes by DPJ lawmakers and rank-and-file party members.

He is ready to reshuffle his party executives and Cabinet, possibly on Sept. 28 and Oct. 1, respectively, a government source said Friday, adding Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano and nuclear disaster minister Goshi Hosono are likely to retain their posts.