Japanese PM-backed candidate wins Okinawa gubernatorial election
Summary
Genta Koja won the election to become the governor of Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, defeating the current governor, Denny Tamaki. Koja’s victory may lead to support for the relocation and expansion of U.S. military facilities in Okinawa, a key area for Japan’s defense strategy.Key Facts
- Genta Koja won 59% of the vote in Okinawa’s gubernatorial election held on Sunday.
- Koja defeated Denny Tamaki, who had served two terms and opposed the U.S. military build-up.
- Koja is supported by Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Liberal Democratic Party.
- At 42 years old, Koja is the youngest governor since Okinawa returned to Japan in 1972.
- Koja’s election might end legal challenges against moving the U.S. Marines from Futenma base to Henoko.
- His leadership could allow more military use of civilian airports and ports in Okinawa.
- Japan plans to increase defense spending to deter China’s growing military presence in East Asia.
- Okinawa is part of a strategic island chain important to Japan’s defense against potential Chinese expansion.
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