Okinawa reelects governor opposing heavy US troop presence

By MARI YAMAGUCHI
Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — Residents of Okinawa have reelected their incumbent governor, who opposes an ongoing U.S. Marine base relocation forced by Japan’s central government and wants American troops on the southern island to be reduced further. Denny Tamaki won about 51% of the effective votes cast in Sunday’s election against two challengers, one from Japan’s ruling bloc and another backed by the opposition. His victory could deepen tensions between Okinawa and the central government. The plan to move U.S. Marine Air Station Futenma from a crowded neighborhood to a less populated area on the island has already been delayed for years. Okinawans want the base removed from the island. Citing growing threats from China, North Korea and Russia, Japan has bolstered its defense in Okinawa.