Japan's Prime Minister Naoto Kan is seen through reporters during a news conference on his resignation at his official residence in Tokyo August 26, 2011. The race to pick Japan's sixth leader in five years was in turmoil on Friday after a scandal-tainted party powerbroker looked likely to refuse to back the most popular candidate just days before a vote. Kan, who came under fire for his response to the massive March tsunami and the radiation crisis it triggered, confirmed his intention to step down at a gathering of ruling Democratic Party of Japan lawmakers, clearing the way for the party to pick a new leader on Monday. REUTERS/Toru Hanai (JAPAN - Tags: POLITICS)