Key Facts
• Yonaguni Town mayoral election to be announced on August 19, 2025.
• Three candidates: incumbent Kenichi Itokazu (71) and two newcomers, Tsuneo Uechi (61) and Chiyoki Tazato (67).
• Yonaguni Island, with 1,600 residents, is 110 km from Taiwan.
• China may complete Taiwan invasion preparations by 2027.
• Key issues: defense infrastructure, public services, and U.S.-Japan joint military training.
• Government plans to strengthen defense in southwestern islands, including Yonaguni.
• Yonaguni Airport runway extension proposed for military use; Itokazu and Uechi support, Tazato opposes.
• Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) Yonaguni base monitors regional air and sea activity.
• U.S.-Japan joint training “Resolute Dragon 25” scheduled for September 2025.
• Defense Ministry emphasizes local cooperation for national security.
Summary
The upcoming mayoral election in Yonaguni Town, Okinawa Prefecture, is set to influence Japan’s response to a potential Taiwan contingency. The election, featuring incumbent Kenichi Itokazu and challengers Tsuneo Uechi and Chiyoki Tazato, highlights defense-related issues, including infrastructure upgrades and U.S.-Japan military collaboration. Yonaguni Island, located 110 km from Taiwan, is a strategic point for national defense, especially as China is expected to complete Taiwan invasion preparations by 2027. The government has prioritized defense enhancements in the southwestern islands, with Yonaguni playing a critical role. While Itokazu and Uechi support extending Yonaguni Airport’s runway for military use, Tazato opposes it, citing risks of becoming a target during conflicts. The election’s outcome will shape local cooperation with national defense efforts, as emphasized by the Defense Ministry.
