January 3, 2019 Ryukyu Shimpo
In the early morning of January 1, citizens opposed to the construction of the new base gathered at Henoko beach and held Hachiukushi. Facing toward the sunrise, 316 citizens renewed their resolution to oppose the construction of a new base.
As they wished for a bright new year, singers and dancers performed Kagiyadefu and Tanchame. Around 7:30 a.m. sunlight emerged from between the clouds that covered the sky and shone on the Henoko sea and beach.
Co-representative of the All Okinawa Coalition Susumu Inamine said, “The future of new base construction will be like sunlight through the clouds, like today. I want to make this year a good year.”
Co-representative of the Helicopter Base Objection Association Hiroshi Ashitomi stressed, “The opposition to construction of the new base is a fight for the people of Okinawa to decide the future of Okinawa. Although the government is forcing construction through, we fight to change society.” Upon hearing his words, citizens raised their fists.
(English translation by T&CT and Megumi Chibana)
