Japan PM-backed candidate wins Okinawa gubernatorial race, base relocation favored

Genta Koja, backed by Japan's ruling coalition, defeated incumbent Denny Tamaki in the Okinawa gubernatorial election. Tamaki had opposed the relocation of the US Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, while Koja supports the central government's plan. The outcome signals a shift in Okinawa's stance on the US military base issue, potentially easing friction between Tokyo and Okinawa.