Governor Takeshi Onaga, who was recuperating after a tumor was found in his pancreas, returned to the prefectural government office after taking leave for 12 days. He attended a policy meeting of top prefectural officials and a meeting with the vice governors.

Onaga, wearing a blue suit and light yellow necktie, stopped at the first floor lobby of the prefectural government office building to talk to reporters. He said: “Nothing has changed since my news conference the other day. I am undergoing several tests right now, and I am healthy enough to work. I look forward to working with you.”

When asked when he expects to be hospitalized, he merely said: “I am still discussing this with the doctors and the hospital staff.”

According to senior Okinawa officials who attended the meeting with Onaga, he gave the following instruction: “I apologize for causing concern. I want you to work for the Okinawan people under the vice governors and the policy coordinator.” The meeting discussed response to the measles epidemic in Okinawa, says one of the senior officials.

A tumor was found in Onaga’s pancreas when he underwent a thorough physical checkup on April 5, so he went for further detailed testing at the Urasoe General Hospital. He will have to be readmitted to the hospital for surgery to remove the tumor measuring over 2 centimeters on the tail of the pancreas before the end of April.

He stated at a news conference on April 10: “I was told by the doctor that I can be completely cured. I would like to get back to work as soon as possible after the surgery and fulfill my duties as governor,” denying any plans to resign.