The New York Times says North Korean leader Kim Jong-il could be facing some obstacles in his reported plan to pass on control of his regime to his youngest son.

The daily said Kim Jong-il may have ordered the country’s second nuclear test last week in hopes of leaving his third son, Jong-un, in control of a country that has cemented its status as a nuclear-weapons state.

However, according to the report, some intelligence officials believe that everyone from the North Korean military to Kim Jong-il’s eldest son may be plotting behind the scenes to derail the succession plans.

The daily added that the North’s last ally, China, is reportedly deeply uncomfortable with the thought of a third-generation family dynasty, unique among Communist nations.

Earlier this week, Time Magazine said Kim Jong-il has apparently designated his third son, Jong-un, as his successor.