Has AIADMK Chosen EPS as Its CM Candidate for the 2026 Assembly Elections?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, the AIADMK has officially designated Edappadi K. Palaniswami as its Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. This decision empowers him to lead alliance negotiations, marking a decisive step in the party's electoral strategy.
Key Takeaways
- EPS is the Chief Ministerial candidate for the AIADMK in the 2026 elections.
- He has full authority to finalize alliances.
- The AIADMK aims to continue its partnership with the BJP.
- 16 key resolutions were unanimously adopted at the meeting.
- The party emphasized the importance of judicial independence.
Chennai, Dec 10 (NationPress) The General Council and Executive Committee of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) convened on Wednesday to adopt several pivotal political resolutions, officially naming party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) as the candidate for Chief Minister in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. In addition, he has been granted comprehensive authority to finalize alliance arrangements.
The sessions took place in a private venue located in Vanagaram, on the outskirts of Chennai.
In the absence of party chairman Tamil Makan Hussain, who was unwell, Deputy General Secretary K.P. Munusamy led the proceedings.
The General Council unanimously adopted 16 resolutions, among which the most crucial empowered EPS to establish alliances on behalf of the party.
The council officially endorsed the continuation of the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and supported an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to challenge the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in the 2026 elections.
The resolutions stipulated that only parties accepting the leadership and goals of the alliance would be included. Furthermore, decisions regarding potential entries of leaders like T.T.V. Dhinakaran and O. Panneerselvam into the NDA would be solely at EPS's discretion.
Another significant resolution confirmed EPS as the Chief Ministerial candidate for 2026, subsequently promoting him as the NDA's representative for the Tamil Nadu elections.
The General Council also condemned what it described as the ruling establishment's "authoritarian attitude" in allegedly attempting to interfere with the judiciary.
The resolution emphasized the need to safeguard judicial independence, cautioning governments against exceeding constitutional boundaries.
However, it was noted that the resolution did not specifically address the Tirupparankundram issue, which has recently ignited political discussions.
Regarding infrastructure, the AIADMK urged the Union government to promptly approve Metro Rail projects in Coimbatore and Madurai, asserting that the DMK government failed to provide the necessary data for approval.
Additionally, the party supported the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, demanding the elimination of irregularities to ensure a clean and accurate voter list.
These resolutions signify a strong political declaration by the AIADMK in anticipation of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the AIADMK's strategic positioning with this announcement. By endorsing Edappadi K. Palaniswami as the Chief Ministerial candidate, the party aims to consolidate its influence in Tamil Nadu politics while challenging the ruling DMK. The move reflects a broader trend of political realignment as the 2026 elections approach.
NationPress
10/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Chief Ministerial candidate for AIADMK in 2026?
Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has been declared the Chief Ministerial candidate for the AIADMK for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
What authority has been granted to EPS?
EPS has been given full authority to finalize alliance decisions for the upcoming elections.
Which parties will AIADMK ally with in 2026?
The AIADMK has endorsed an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and will include only those parties that accept the leadership of the NDA.
What resolutions were adopted during the meeting?
A total of 16 resolutions were passed, including the endorsement of EPS as the Chief Ministerial candidate and the continuation of the AIADMK-led NDA.
What concerns did the AIADMK raise regarding the ruling government?
The AIADMK condemned the ruling establishment's authoritarian attitude, particularly regarding interference with the judiciary.
