Chennai, May 20:
The internal rift within the AIADMK has intensified, with senior leader C.Ve. Shanmugam launching a sharp attack on party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), accusing him of weakening the party through unilateral decisions.
Addressing reporters after consultations with supporters, Shanmugam alleged that the AIADMKās vote bank has significantly declined due to repeated electoral setbacks and a lack of introspection by the leadership.
He claimed that key suggestions, including re-inducting expelled leaders like O. Panneerselvam and exploring alliances ahead of elections, were ignored by EPS.
Accusing him of functioning like a ādictator,ā Shanmugam said internal democracy within the party has been stifled. He further asserted that recent expulsions and appointments lack legal validity, maintaining that only office-bearers in position at the time of the dispute hold legitimacy.
Emphasising unity, he said the rebel factionās sole aim is to strengthen the party and called for resolving differences through a general council meeting, the outcome of which they would accept.