Denny Tamaki's claim regarding Naha Airport management found to be incorrect

During an Okinawa gubernatorial election campaign rally in Uruma City, incumbent Governor Denny Tamaki claimed that while Naha Airport is owned by the national government, its management is handled by the prefecture.

A fact check conducted by the Okinawa Times has determined this statement to be incorrect. Under the Airport Act, Naha Airport is established and managed by the national government. The Naha Airport Office, which centrally handles management operations, is an agency of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and the prefecture has no involvement in its management.

Tamaki made these remarks while expressing his intention to refuse any U.S. military use of space within Naha Airport as a condition for the return of Futenma Air Base. A video of the remarks, posted by a supporter account on X (formerly Twitter), drew widespread criticism for its inaccuracy before the post was removed.