About 1,600 Japanese citizens showed up in protest of the government’s latest move in military defence. Japan is bolstering their military presence on the Nansei Islands. A cautious sign that Japan is ending its ‘pacifist era.’
“I want the government to hold thorough dialogue to ease tensions with the neighbouring country.” said one protestor in Naha. Alluding to the increased tensions between the US and China with Japan caught in the mix.
Takamatsu Gushiken, chairman of the protesting group, with experience recovering remains of the fallen in the Battle of Okinawa had this to say; “Militarisation is being pushed forward at such a speed that it does not leave leeway for the people of Okinawa to think. We must not resort to shelters or evacuation, but choose to stop Okinawa from becoming a battlefield.”
