February 2, 2021

In the mayoral election held on January 31 in Nishinoomote City in Kagoshima Prefecture, anti-base and citizen-backed incumbent Yaita Shunsuke won a close contest against his rival supported by the Liberal Democratic Party, securing his second term as Nishinoomote mayor.

The major issue in the election was the militarization of Mageshima Isaland, located about 10 kilometers from the city, through the relocation of carrier landing practice (FCLP) by U.S. carrier-based aircraft to the island and the construction of a Self-Defense Forces facility on the island. Yaita’s victory represents Nishinoomote citizens’ opposition to the national government’s attempt to militarize the island.

Voter turnout topped 80% as if it were a local referendum.

At a press conference following the election results, Yaita cited the high voter turnout which topped 80%, and said, “I think that my stance to oppose the planned militarization of Mageshima was approved in the referendum. I’ll negotiate with the national government on this matter.”

The LDP-backed candidate adopted a stance to accept the planned relocation of FCLP to Mageshima. During the election campaign, he insisted that military facilities on Mageshima, if constructed, will play a vital role in revitalizing the local economy and promised that if elected, he will use base-hosting subsidies to support local businesses. He conducted his election campaign by using a strong influence of the local business circles.

In contrast, members of civil groups supporting the anti-base incumbent distributed into mailboxes and on the street flyers stating that the military presence will boost the local economy only temporarily while causing severe noise pollution. They formed an alliance with some of conservative people on the single issue of opposing the military use of Mageshima, which contributed to Yaita’s victory.

Past related article:
> Citizens will support mayoral candidate opposing militarization of Mageshima Island [December 23, 2020]