Governor Koja meets Henoko leaders to discuss base relocation

Okinawa Governor Genta Koja held his first meeting with local leaders from the Kubeyabe Three Districts—comprising Henoko, Toyohara, and Kushi—to discuss the relocation of the Futenma Air Base to Henoko in Nago City.

During the meeting, Governor Koja reaffirmed his position of accepting the relocation, expressing regret over the increased base burden placed on local residents. He stated his intention to listen to local opinions and reflect them in his administration.

In response, district leaders and Nago Mayor Taketomi Toguchi urged the Governor to take responsibility for the region's future if the relocation proceeds. They requested improvements to the living environment, including addressing traffic congestion caused by construction, regional revitalization, and tackling issues such as population decline and medical and welfare services.