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Japanese hold rally against US military base

Monday, 26 January 2015 5:49 PM [ Last Update: Monday, 26 January 2015 5:50 PM ]

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Albert Siegel
Press TV, Tokyo

A mass rally has been held in Tokyo in support of Japanese residents who oppose the construction of a new American military base in Henoko, Okinawa. Thousands of people gathered around Japanese parliament to form a circle around the building as part of a gathering aimed at getting world attention to their issue.

Thousands of people gathered in front of the Japanese parliament building to protest the proposed construction of a US military base in Henoko, Okinawa.

They hope that by forming a circle around parliament, they could gain world attention to their cause since the Abe administration seems to be ignoring the will of the people.
Protesters say there are many concerns with the presence of a US base including noise pollution, military accidents, and increased crime rate. Of particular concern is the environmental damage the new base may cause.

The people also say they do not want any more weapons of war in their backyard. It’s not just average citizens who feel this way. Even some politicians joined with the people.

Opposition to the base is so strong, that the recent election for the governor of Okinawa was decided mainly on anti-base issues. Now with the people and local government against the base, the central government has started to play tough with Okinawa by using its power and plans to continue with the construction of the base no matter what.

It’s clear that the people are angry at the government because it is ignoring their wishes. What’s not clear is when, if ever, either side would give up.

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