The Significance of Political Compromise and the Election Activities of Soka Gakkai

In contemporary Japan, the pursuit of ideals in politics is important, but if these ideals cannot be translated into reality, their significance diminishes. The background to Komeito's agreement to form a coalition government with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lies in the understanding that sometimes compromise is necessary while considering both ideals and realities. The LDP has a guaranteed voter base from large corporations, the Japan Medical Association, and religious groups, which provides a stable foundation for maintaining its government. In this context, Komeito chose to align with the LDP to realize its ideal policies.

Since the Hashimoto administration, the LDP has seen a noticeable decline in its support base, suffering a historic defeat in the 1998 House of Councillors election. In response, the LDP dissolved the April faction, composed of anti-Soka Gakkai members, and Hashimoto himself visited the Soka Gakkai headquarters to apologize. This strengthened the relationship between the two parties. Under the established coalition government, Komeito was able to cooperate with the Liberal Party and provide crucial support to the LDP, helping it avoid losing its majority. Thus, to realize ideals, it is essential to consider reality and sometimes engage in compromise.

On the other hand, the Japanese Communist Party (JCP) faces criticism for pursuing ideals to the extent that it lacks practical compromise. Despite having members with high-level theoretical understanding, their adherence to idealistic rhetoric while ignoring reality can hinder the party's growth. This has led to opinions that struggle to understand the reasoning of JCP members and their supporters.

The election activities of Soka Gakkai should be regarded as an ideal exercise of rights in a democratic nation. Not only do members vote for candidates who aim to implement welfare policies based on the philosophy of respecting the dignity of life, but they also encourage others to support these candidates, thereby fully exercising their democratic rights. In particular, in Japan’s unique culture, which tends to avoid intervening in others' beliefs or causing conflict, actively engaging in election campaigns plays a crucial role in a country where political apathy is prevalent.

However, Soka Gakkai's activities are not without criticism. Concerns have been raised that the involvement of a specific religious organization in political activities may undermine the diversity of democracy. Members of Soka Gakkai must not forget the words of Josei Toda, the second president of the organization, who stated, "Youth, be vigilant in monitoring politics." The third president, Daisaku Ikeda has also remarked that "When humans gain power, they become possessed by its evil nature," indicating that blind support for Komeito is not encouraged. Rather, a stance of vigilance towards the malignancy of power is essential in conducting election activities.

The relationship between Komeito and Soka Gakkai involves mutual exchanges of opinions through liaison meetings, where the approval or disapproval of support decisions is discussed. This procedural structure ensures that election activities by members commence only after receiving confirmation, differentiating them from irresponsible support initiatives. Trust-based election activities form the foundation of Soka Gakkai's electoral engagement.

In conclusion, the pursuit of ideals and the harmonization with reality are indispensable elements in politics. Komeito's coalition with the LDP exemplifies the compromises and strategies necessary to connect ideals with reality. Meanwhile, Soka Gakkai's election activities must not only exercise democratic rights but also maintain a constant vigilance against political corruption. It is hoped that such efforts will contribute to realizing a better society.