
Call for AIADMK Merger: Sasikala Pushes for Unity Ahead of 2026 tamil Nadu Elections
Sasikala Appeals for Unity:
VK Sasikala, the expelled interim general secretary of AIADMK and former aide of late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, has called on all factions of the AIADMK to unite ahead of the 2026 tamil Nadu assembly elections.
AIADMK Cadre Support Unity:
Sasikala stated that the party workers and supporters overwhelmingly want a united AIADMK, emphasizing that unity is crucial for regaining political strength and electoral success.
Timing of Merger is Key:
She stressed that the merger should happen before, not after, the elections to effectively challenge the ruling DMK and re-establish "Amma’s rule."
Acknowledges the Challenges:
Sasikala admitted that it is easy to reject people from rival factions but difficult to accept and accommodate them. However, she believes reconciliation is essential, even if it takes time.
Focus on the Bigger Goal:
The primary objective, according to Sasikala, is to end DMK’s rule and revive the AIADMK’s governance model, which she termed as “Amma’s rule.” She added that the past should be left behind and all efforts should now be directed towards a positive future.
Support from AIADMK Veteran KA Sengottaiyan:
Senior AIADMK leader KA Sengottaiyan echoed Sasikala’s sentiment, urging all factions to “forget and forgive” and come together for the party’s strength and success in 2026.
Resistance from TTV Dhinakaran:
Meanwhile, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran, Sasikala’s nephew, ruled out supporting Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) as the AIADMK’s chief ministerial candidate. Dhinakaran, also expelled from AIADMK, recently distanced himself from the BJP.
BJP’s Attempt to Reunite Allies:
BJP state president N. Nagendran has attempted to bring back key AIADMK splinter leaders like O. Panneerselvam and TTV Dhinakaran into the nda fold, even as BJP continues to support EPS as their cm candidate.
Political Dynamics in Flux:
With elections just over a year away, tamil Nadu’s political landscape is heating up. Sasikala’s call for unity may play a crucial role in reshaping the opposition’s strategy against the DMK in 2026.