Japan Communist Party (Marxist–Leninist)

The Japan Communist Party (Marxist–Leninist), often abbreviated as JCP (M-L), is a minor communist party in Japan. It was formed in 1963 as a splinter group from the Japan Communist Party (JCP). The split occurred due to ideological disagreements with the JCP's evolving revisionist stance, particularly regarding the role of the Soviet Union and its policies. The JCP (M-L) adhered to a more orthodox Marxist-Leninist ideology, aligned with the political thought of Mao Zedong and the Chinese Communist Party during the Sino-Soviet split.

The party's core principles involve advocating for a socialist revolution in Japan, overthrowing capitalism, and establishing a proletarian dictatorship. While initially supportive of Maoism, the party has adjusted its stance over time, although remaining committed to revolutionary Marxism-Leninism. The JCP (M-L) has consistently criticized both the mainstream Japan Communist Party for what it considers revisionism and other political parties for their perceived capitalist leanings.

The party has never held significant political power in Japan. Its activities have primarily focused on grassroots organizing, political education, and publishing ideological materials. It has participated in elections, but typically with limited success. The JCP (M-L) maintains a relatively low profile in Japanese politics, but continues to exist as one of several small communist parties in the country. Its influence on contemporary Japanese political discourse is minimal.