The people of Okinawa are outraged by recent cases of sexual assault involving US soldiers and the lack of response from the Japanese government. Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki expressed extreme anger over the assaults and called for action. Activists and local politicians demand better communication between local and national authorities to address these crimes and protect women’s rights.
Despite the government’s failure to act, the ruling party’s popularity remains strong due to concerns about regional security and the threat posed by China. However, critics believe Tokyo should take responsibility for addressing these issues and ensuring the safety of Okinawan residents. The US military is expected to introduce measures to prevent future incidents and offer apologies, but the focus remains on Tokyo’s role in advocating for its citizens.