New Okinawa governor Takeshi Onaga visits Henoko to proclaim true democracy from Okinawa

New Okinawa governor Takeshi Onaga visits Henoko to proclaim true democracy from Okinawa

Former Naha Mayor Takeshi Onaga who won the Okinawa gubernatorial election, held on November 16, delivered a speech to citizens opposing a new offshore U.S air base in Henoko. In front of the Camp Schwab gate in the Henoko district of Nago on November 19.


November 19, 2014 Ryukyu Shimpo

Former Naha Mayor Takeshi Onaga, who won the Okinawa gubernatorial election, held on November 16, made an appearance in front of the Camp Schwab gate in the Henoko district of Nago on November 19. It was Onaga’s first visit to Henoko since his win in the gubernatorial election. Speaking to citizens who continue to stage a sit-in protest in front of the gate, Onaga once again promised that as new Okinawa governor he would continue to oppose the plan to relocate U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Henoko.

After shaking hands with the protesters and receiving applause from them, Onaga greeted them and thanked them for their contribution to his election win. He said, “Beyond the framework of the conservative-versus-progressive party, I won the election by declaring that I will not allow for the new military base to be built. The U.S military bases are the biggest disincentive for Okinawan economic development. Although Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said the Japanese government would carry out the plan without making a fuss, I would like to proclaim what a true democratic nation is from Okinawa.”

Earlier that morning, seven trucks loaded with construction materials had entered the gate.

The protesters tried to stop the trucks from entering the gate. Police officers and private security firm workers surrounded them in order to secure entry for the trucks.

The “push and pull” between the police officers and citizens created a chaotic scene.

(English translation by T&CT)

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