Chennai, Sept 7:
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami has stepped up preparations for six Assembly by-elections expected in Tamil Nadu, directing party district secretaries to intensify organisational work and strengthen the party at the grassroots.
Chairing a meeting of district secretaries at the AIADMK headquarters in Chennai on Sunday, Palaniswami reviewed the party’s organisational position and preparations for the electoral contests.
The six by-elections are expected to arise following the resignation of six AIADMK MLAs who joined the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam after the Assembly elections.
Palaniswami, however, told party functionaries that the by-elections were not expected immediately, citing ongoing court cases. He asked the cadre to use the available time to strengthen the organisation and prepare effectively.
The AIADMK chief directed district secretaries to conduct meetings in their respective areas, accelerate organisational activities and fill vacant posts at different levels. Newly appointed district secretaries were also asked to maintain unity among cadres and work collectively.
Palaniswami separately met district secretaries from the six constituencies where by-elections are expected at his Royapettah residence and reviewed the political situation and the party’s preparedness.
The AIADMK is also preparing to convene its Executive Committee meeting next month. Palaniswami has asked district secretaries to submit updated lists of Executive Committee and General Council members.
The proposed Executive Committee meeting is expected to be the party’s first such meeting of the year. According to party sources, the General Council meeting is likely to be scheduled before December, as required under the party’s organisational rules.
Palaniswami also discussed arrangements for statewide celebrations marking the 118th birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C N Annadurai.
The latest organisational exercise comes as the AIADMK seeks to rebuild its cadre network following its recent electoral setback and prepare for the political contests ahead.