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October 2, 2018

Japan: Okinawa Elects Governor Opposed to U.S. Military Bases
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In Japan, voters in Okinawa have elected a new governor who has promised
to oppose the long-running U.S. military presence on the Japanese
island. Denny Tamaki has vowed to block the controversial relocation of
a U.S. military base-a move which is likely to upset both the central
government and the United States, which has long depended on Okinawa to
accommodate its military bases and personnel. Many residents of the
small island have opposed the U.S. military's presence for decades. This
is Governor-elect Tamaki.

Governor-elect Denny Tamaki: "Over two generations, governors have
protested the new bases at Henoko and have been ignored. But now, the
gubernatorial government has already withdrawn its permission for the
base's land reclamation project. And the prefectural government has used
the proper process based on what is best for the good of the public. I
will continue to let the central government understand that not abiding
by this process is undemocratic and is against the rule of law."



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