Okinawa's Anti-Base Alliance Faces Setback After Election Loss

The anti-base alliance in Okinawa, known as All Okinawa, has experienced a significant setback following the February 8 lower house election, where it failed to secure any of the four single-seat constituencies. Instead, all seats were won by candidates from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). This defeat raises critical questions about the future of organized resistance to the U.S. military presence on Japan's southernmost islands.

South China Morning Post

All Okinawa is a coalition comprising various opposition parties and civic groups, including the local branches of the Japanese Communist Party, the Social Democratic Party, and the Okinawa Social Mass Party. The coalition has been united in its efforts to halt the construction of a new U.S. military facility in Henoko, intended to replace the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma air station, and to alleviate the burden of the heavy concentration of American forces in the region.

South China Morning Post

Governor Denny Tamaki, a prominent figure in the All Okinawa coalition, expressed disappointment at a press conference following the election results. He attributed the defeat to what he described as “the sudden gust of the Takaichi whirlwind,” indicating a strong and unexpected campaign by the LDP. The loss has prompted discussions within the coalition about the potential decline of its influence among voters and the effectiveness of its strategies.

South China Morning Post

The election results have sparked a debate regarding the anti-base movement's connection with the electorate. Critics argue that the coalition may be losing its appeal, questioning whether its messaging and strategies resonate with the broader population. This sentiment reflects a growing concern that the movement's previous momentum may be waning, particularly in light of the LDP's decisive victory.

South China Morning Post

In the wake of this electoral defeat, the All Okinawa coalition faces the challenge of reassessing its approach to mobilizing support against the U.S. military presence. The coalition's future actions will likely focus on rebuilding its base and addressing the concerns raised by the recent election results. The outcome may also influence the broader political landscape in Okinawa, as the LDP consolidates its power in the region.

South China Morning Post

• “the sudden gust of the Takaichi whirlwind” — Denny Tamaki, Governor of Okinawa

South China Morning Post

• “The scale of the subsequent setback has since prompted debate over whether the movement is losing its hold on voters, and why.” — Analysis of the election impact

South China Morning Post

The recent electoral defeat of the All Okinawa coalition marks a pivotal moment in Okinawa's political landscape, challenging the future of organized resistance to the U.S. military presence and prompting critical reflections on the movement's strategies and voter engagement.

South China Morning Post