Okinawa Prefecture abolishes Henoko base opposition division

Okinawa Prefecture has abolished the ‘Henoko New Base Construction Problem Countermeasures Division’ as part of an administrative reorganization following the inauguration of Governor Genta Koja. The responsibilities of the former division, which focused on the relocation and return of Futenma Air Base, have been transferred to a newly established ‘Early Return Countermeasures Office’ within the Base Countermeasures Division.

The former division, established in 2015, was a symbol of the ‘All Okinawa’ administration and was tasked with coordinating against the construction of the new base in Henoko, Nago City, including potential legal battles with the national government. Under the new administration, the prefecture will stop publishing content on its website that expressed opposition to the Henoko relocation, stating that such views differ from Governor Koja’s policy. However, factual documents regarding the history of the Futenma return and legal materials will remain available on the prefecture’s website.

The new Early Return Countermeasures Office, staffed by seven employees, will handle the return of Futenma Air Base, the integration of facilities south of Kadena Air Base, and the relocation of Naha port facilities. Governor Koja stated that his administration remains committed to demanding the removal of the dangers posed by Futenma and the reduction of the burden on prefecture residents.