Former prime minister Hatoyama encourages Governor Tamaki to block Henoko construction

Former prime minister Hatoyama encourages Governor Tamaki to block Henoko construction

On November 22 at the Prefectural Office, former prime minister Yukio Hatoyama shakes hands with Governor Denny Tamaki.


 

November 23, 2018 Ryukyu Shimpo

 

On November 22 for the first time since taking office, Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki had an interview with former prime minister Yukio Hatoyama at the Prefectural Office.

In regard to construction of the Futenma Replacement Facility in Henoko that Governor Tamaki opposes, Mr. Hatoyama said, “It will be a considerably harsh battle, but I hope that you will persevere in your intent to absolutely not allow the new base to be built.”

Aside from the outset of the interview, their meeting was private. According to former prime minister Hatoyama after the interview, Governor Tamaki should “absolutely” block construction of the Henoko base.

He also encouraged Governor Tamaki to “fight to the very end.” Mr. Hatoyama also touched on Governor Tamaki’s first visit to the United States.

He shared his thinking that: “Your lecture in New York was received favorably. From here on, too, continue making efforts like visiting and asking the United States for its understanding.”

In the interview Mr. Hatoyama said that during his time as prime minister he set out to at least get a site for the Futenma Replacement Facility outside of Okinawa. He continued, “Now I think it should be relocated outside of Japan, and I believe that even Tokuno Island has proven troublesome [as a proposed relocation site].”

 

(English translation by T&CT and Erin Jones)

 

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