National News

Okinawa defense chief axed for remark

A senior Defense Ministry official was fired Nov. 29 from the post of chief of the Okinawa Defense Bureau over an indiscreet comment he allegedly made about the government's plan to relocate the Futenma military base in Okinawa Prefecture. Defense Minister Yasuo Ichikawa announced the dismissal after questioning the official, Satoshi Tanaka, about media reports quoting him as using a Japanese term often interpreted as implying an act of sexual violence against women in reference to the controversial plan. Ichikawa said it would be difficult for Tanaka to continue in the post while the ministry is at a crucial stage regarding issues involving Okinawa. (Kyodo News)

Shukan ST: DECEMBER 9, 2011

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