Okinawa Gubernatorial Election Approaches: Denny Tamaki Seeks Third Term

(Central News Agency Tokyo, April 26) The Okinawa gubernatorial election is set for an official announcement on August 27, with voting to follow on September 13. Incumbent Governor Denny Tamaki held a press conference in Naha today to formally announce his bid for re-election. He is expected to face off against Gentai Kosha, the former Deputy Mayor of Naha. Tamaki, 66, was first elected in 2018 and is currently finishing his second term. His current mandate expires on September 29. Gentai Kosha, 42, a former official of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications supported by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has already announced his candidacy. Kosha supports the relocation of Futenma Air Station to the Henoko area. Reports indicate that the campaign will likely be a duel between Tamaki and Kosha, focusing on issues such as U.S. military bases and economic revitalization. The results will also influence the defense policies of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration, which is pushing for a stronger Japan-U.S. alliance. Tamaki emphasized his achievements in economic growth and improving residents' quality of life, vowing further development. He reiterated his opposition to the Henoko relocation, stating he will 'strongly demand the central government to eliminate the dangers of Futenma as soon as possible.' He highlighted his experience handling crises like the Shuri Castle fire and the COVID-19 pandemic, and noted that the prefectural budget for fiscal 2026 has exceeded 9000 billion yen for the first time. If re-elected, his key pledges include building a railway system and extending the Okinawa Urban Monorail.