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Thousands protest in Okinawa over US bases
Thousands of protesters circled a United States military airbase in Okinawa on Sunday, to urge its forces to leave ahead of the 35th anniversary of the southern island chain's return to Japan."Maybe Guam, then," said Rep. Murtha... The tiny province, which was ruled by the US from 1945 until 1972, hosts half of more than 40,000 American troops stationed in Japan under a security alliance. Thousands held hands together at Okinawa's Kadena Air Base, which has a 17 kilometre (10 miles)-long perimeter, and hoisted banners that proclaimed:"Give us back quiet nights! US bases, withdraw from Okinawa!" A middle-aged woman said she wanted to send a message of peace to the next generation of Japanese people who have grown up with military bases in Okinawa. The demonstration was organised by local labour unions and peace activists, also to mark the 35th anniversary, on Tuesday, of Okinawa's return to Japan. Japan and the United States in 2005 agreed to a relocation plan that will transfer 8,000 troops from Okinawa to the US territory of Guam and dismantle Futenma air base, which has long been the source of grievances as it is in the crowded urban centre of Ginowan. Posted by: Fred 2007-05-14 |
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