In a significant statement that has sparked speculation about the future of the AIADMK, expelled party leader O. Panneerselvam on Tuesday expressed confidence that a reunion of the party is on the horizon. Speaking to journalists after paying floral tributes to the statue of social reformer Periyar E.V. Ramasamy in Chennai, Panneerselvam indicated that party cadre would come together to restore the AIADMK to its former glory.“The time for the reunion of the AIADMK is not far away. The party will flourish like it did in the old days of our leaders MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa,” Panneerselvam said. His remarks have fueled hopes among his supporters that the AIADMK, which has been fragmented by internal disputes, could soon see a united front.
When asked about the political campaigns of ousted AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala and AMMK leader T.T.V. Dhinakaran, Panneerselvam remained optimistic, stating, “Everyone will come together. The day is not too far away.” However, he refrained from commenting on AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, who has firmly opposed any reconciliation with Panneerselvam, Sasikala, and Dhinakaran. Palaniswami has consolidated his control over the AIADMK and has reportedly discouraged party members from even mentioning their names in meetings.
Panneerselvam’s remarks come amid growing chatter about the future direction of Tamil Nadu politics, particularly as factions within the AIADMK navigate their separate political paths. The comments also followed the political stir created by VCK President Thol. Thirumavalavan’s recent remarks on “power sharing” in the DMK alliance. Panneerselvam dismissed the incident as “political drama” orchestrated by the DMK and its allies but declined to elaborate further.