## Overview of Komeito Komeito, also known as the Clean Government Party, is a Japanese political party founded in 1964 as the political wing of the Buddhist lay movement Soka Gakkai. The party's origins trace back to the Political Federation for Clean Government launched in 1961, reflecting a commitment to humanistic and pacifist principles[1][3]. Komeito's founding aimed to provide a political voice for the underrepresented, focusing on issues like peace, social security, and human rights[3]. ## History and Evolution Initially, Komeito made significant electoral gains, becoming a key player in Japanese politics. However, it dissolved in 1994 to form part of a coalition government. The party re-emerged as New Komeito in 1998, maintaining its core principles while adapting to changing political landscapes[3][8]. Over the years, Komeito has evolved from a more progressive stance to a center-to-center-right conservative position, often playing a crucial role as a coalition partner with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)[7]. ## Key Achievements and Current Status Komeito has been instrumental in promoting decentralization and empowering local governments in Japan[4]. It has also been a key player in maintaining regional stability, particularly in Japan-China relations, by advocating for dialogue and cooperation[6]. Recently, Komeito withdrew from its formal coalition with the LDP due to ideological differences and political funding scandals, marking a significant shift in Japanese politics[5]. ## Notable Aspects - **Political Influence**: Komeito's influence is closely tied to its relationship with Soka Gakkai, which supports its pacifist and anti-corruption stance[5]. - **Grassroots Approach**: The party emphasizes grassroots democracy and community-level governance[4]. - **Diplomatic Role**: Komeito plays a crucial role in fostering Japan-China relations, focusing on shared challenges like climate change and global