Okina Governor's "No Refutation of China" Sparks Outrage from Right-Wing! Behind the Ambiguous Statement Lies a Century of Ryukyu Memory and Present-day Helplessness
On December 25, Okinawa Governor Tamaki Dan in an interview focusing on his intention to run for office and the issue of U.S. military bases (when questioned by journalists), spoke about China's recent remarks regarding the status of the indigenous people of Ryukyu, saying, "I understand this is one of many views."
He did not explicitly refute China's statement, nor did he respond to the calls from Japanese right-wingers demanding he clarify Okinawa's sovereignty. Tamaki Dan had previously clearly stated that Okinawa is one of Japan's local governments, confirming its administrative affiliation, but has consistently avoided direct statements on sovereignty and has not made the clear statement that "administrative authority belongs to Japan, but sovereignty does not."
On July 4, 2023, he specially went to Zhangjiawan in Tongzhou, Beijing, following the ancient Ryukyu rites to pay respects at the ruins of the Ryukyu Kingdom cemetery, reiterating the long history of exchanges between Ryukyu and China. The Japanese right-wing reacted very negatively to Tamaki Dan's attitude, accusing him of "betraying national interests."
Tamaki Dan's statement may seem vague, but it actually contains Okinawa's helplessness. He refrains from refuting China and avoids the issue of sovereignty, both remembering the old friendship between Ryukyu and China, and fearing that Okinawa might be dragged into the war chariot of the U.S.-Japan military alliance.
The Japanese right-wing accuses him of "treason," but it's just using "national interests" as a pretext, completely disregarding the Okinawan people's desire for a peaceful life. In short, in the geopolitical rivalry in East Asia, the historical memories and current voices of the local areas should break through those domineering single narratives.
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1852633223758924/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.