Atsushi Sakima, supported by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito, emerged victorious in the mayoral election held in Ginowan, Okinawa Prefecture. This marks Sakima’s third win as mayor of the city, which is home to the U.S. Marine Corps’ Futenma Air Station. His opponents included Isao Tobaru, a former city assembly member who opposed relocating the air base to Nago in Okinawa Prefecture.
Tobaru received support from various groups such as the All Okinawa camp and Governor Denny Tamaki. Additionally, he was backed by political parties like the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, Japanese Communist Party, and Social Democratic Party.
The election took place following the sudden passing of Ginowan Mayor Masanori Matsugawa in late July. Interestingly, despite being a significant issue in previous elections, base relocation did not play a major role this time due to ongoing legal battles between Okinawa Prefecture and the central government coming to an end.
Sakima’s stance on relocation seemed to resonate with voters as he called for a gradual reduction of hosting burdens before completion and emphasized cooperation with the central government for redevelopment projects on returned land.
In June’s Okinawa prefectural assembly election, parties opposing Governor Tamaki gained majority control. With their recent victory in this mayoral race following that result, it appears that momentum is building for both national House of Representatives elections and future gubernatorial elections in Okinawa.
Despite Tobaru receiving full support from Governor Tamaki during his campaign efforts to bring change to Ginowan’s conservative-led government after 12 years were unsuccessful.
A total of 77,646 people cast their votes in this election with a voter turnout rate of 53.27%, lower than the previous election’s rate of 63.49%.
