Panneerselvam Eyes AIADMK Return with Democratic Reforms

O Panneerselvam expressed willingness to return to the AIADMK, advocating for the democratic election of the general secretary post. Expelled from the party, Panneerselvam aims to unify factions and lead them to victory in the 2026 Assembly election, emphasizing unity and internal democracy.

O Panneerselvam, former Chief Minister, has announced his readiness to rejoin the AIADMK, provided the party allows for a democratic election of its general secretary. He emphasized the necessity of restoring democracy within the party, which once propelled him, an ordinary worker, to its upper echelons.

Pushed out of the AIADMK by current general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, Panneerselvam accused Palaniswami of altering bylaws to facilitate his own ascension. Despite expulsion, Panneerselvam remains committed to reconciling the party’s divergent factions and steering it toward success in the upcoming 2026 Assembly election.

Panneerselvam, along with TTV Dinakaran and Sasikala, is prepared to discuss reconciliation terms with the AIADMK. Criticizing Palaniswami for claiming credit for the Athikadavu-Avinashi project, he highlighted its sanction during J Jayalalithaa’s governance, portraying unity as a means to fulfill her vision for party longevity.