'I Will Remain PMK President,' Anbumani Ramadoss Asserts Amid Leadership Tensions
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Synopsis
Chennai, April 13 (NationPress) The PMK is facing a leadership crisis as S. Ramadoss declares himself president, replacing Anbumani Ramadoss. Anbumani asserts his position, aiming to clarify the party's direction ahead of the Mamallapuram conference and 2026 elections.
Key Takeaways
- Leadership Crisis: S. Ramadoss declares himself PMK President.
- Anbumani's Stand: Reasserts his role as party President.
- Upcoming Conference: Chithirai Full Moon Vanniyar Youth Festival Conference is crucial.
- Party Goals: Aiming for success in the 2026 elections.
- Internal Dispute: Tensions rooted in earlier disagreements.
Chennai, April 13 (NationPress) The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), which serves as the political representative of the influential Vanniyar community, finds itself in an internal leadership turmoil after its founder, S. Ramadoss, declared himself the new party President, thereby demoting his son, the current President Anbumani Ramadoss, to the position of Working (executive) President.
S. Ramadoss disclosed this decision during a press briefing at his home in Thailapuram, Villupuram, on Thursday, emphasizing the necessity for robust leadership in anticipation of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
He subsequently appointed senior party figure G.K. Mani as the new PMK President.
Reacting to this move, Anbumani Ramadoss released a statement on Saturday reaffirming his position as the President of PMK.
"Dear party members, a sudden confusion has emerged regarding the role of President of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK). To prevent any negative effects on the party's development and the forthcoming Mamallapuram Chithirai Full Moon Vanniyar Youth Festival Conference, I wish to clarify this matter," he stated.
He pointed out that the PMK was established by S. Ramadoss on July 16, 1989, with the goal of promoting social justice and political empowerment for the general populace.
"In accordance with the party's constitution, the President is elected by the General Council. On May 28, 2022, I was unanimously chosen as party President with the consent of S. Ramadoss and support from party members. This was also acknowledged by the Election Commission of India," Anbumani Ramadoss stated.
Reiterating his position as the legitimately elected President, Anbumani Ramadoss confirmed that he will continue to operate in this capacity and strive towards achieving the party's goals with the aid of its leaders and members.
Stressing the significance of the upcoming Chithirai Full Moon Vanniyar Youth Festival Conference in Mamallapuram on May 11, Anbumani Ramadoss described it as a long-cherished dream spanning 12 years and a pivotal moment for the party.
"I feel privileged that S. Ramadoss has entrusted me with the task of ensuring the success of this event. As the chairman of the conference committee, I am managing all preparations and urge all administrators to unite our members for this occasion," he remarked.
Anbumani Ramadoss also highlighted that securing additional seats in the 2026 state Assembly elections and forming a robust alliance under S. Ramadoss's guidance are among the top priorities.
"As President, I will steer the PMK to realize S. Ramadoss's vision and elevate our movement," he affirmed.
However, this internal discord traces back to a public disagreement between father and son during a Special General Council meeting held in Puducherry on December 28, 2024.
Reports indicate that S. Ramadoss is dissatisfied with the PMK's increasing alignment with the BJP and may seek to redirect the party’s attention towards its primary mission—empowering the Vanniyar community—and potentially collaborating with Dravidian parties instead.
The timing of this leadership change aligns with the approaching conclusion of Anbumani Ramadoss's term in the Rajya Sabha and the recent political visit from Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Tamil Nadu.
