Okinawa gubernatorial election candidates focus on base issues and welfare

The upcoming Okinawa gubernatorial election features a contest between incumbent Denny Tamaki, seeking a third term, and new candidates Gen Ta Kosha, a former deputy mayor of Naha, and Mikio Shimoji, a former minister responsible for postal privatization.

Historically, Okinawa's gubernatorial elections have been defined by the tension between regional economic needs and the presence of U.S. military bases. Key past issues have included the struggle for reversion to Japan, the relocation of the Futenma base to Henoko, and various economic development policies. While base issues such as the Henoko relocation remain central, candidates also address critical local concerns including transportation and welfare.