Okinawans reject US base transfer with large turnout

Despite nonbinding poll result, Abe says relocation can no longer be ‘put off’

Okinawans march against the relocation of the Futenma Air Station to the coastal area of Henoko. Residents rejected the plan in a referendum Sunday. © Kyodo

Nikkei staff writers

February 25, 2019 01:23 JST

Updated on February 25, 2019 12:17 JST

NAHA, Japan -- Okinawans rejected the relocation of a U.S. air base Sunday with over 70% of votes cast in opposition, but the nonbinding referendum has not weakened Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's resolve to go ahead with the plan.