Tadatoshi Akiba has been the driving force behind Hiroshima's plans but has decided not to seek a fourth term in office and will leave after the election on April 10.

His determination to pursue a bid for the Olympics had led most observers to believe that he would seek to remain in a post he has held since 1999.

But Akiba said he wants "a new person with a passion to take over" the job.

In April Akiba had convened a special meeting of the Municipal Assembly to force through a ¥24.69 million (£1.91 million/$2.96 million) budget to revive his initiative to stage an Olympics dedicated to global nuclear disarmament.

Takeda claimed that the departure of Akiba did not spell the end of Hiroshima's hopes.

"The city has a wonderful proposal," said Takeda.

"I would be extremely happy if the city of Hiroshima continues to consider making a bid for the Olympics."

Tokyo, who hosted the 1964 Olympics and unsuccessfully bid for the 2016 Games, are also interested in staging the 2020 event.

"We have to keep tabs on the situation going forward," said Takeda.

"Right now, I can't really say anything."

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