Has ECI Acknowledged Anbumani Ramadoss as PMK President?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ECI formally recognizes Anbumani Ramadoss as PMK president.
- Tenure of office bearers extended until August 2026.
- PMK’s mango remains the official election symbol.
- Leadership confirmed under Ramadoss amidst internal challenges.
- Call for unity and strengthening the party’s campaign.
Chennai, Sep 15 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially acknowledged Anbumani Ramadoss as the president of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and has prolonged the terms of the party’s principal office-bearers until August 1, 2026.
During an announcement at the party headquarters in T. Nagar, PMK spokesperson and attorney K. Balu stated that the Election Commission has accepted the resolutions adopted during the general council meeting conducted in August at Mamallapuram.
He showcased the official notification from the ECI affirming this decision, describing it as a “clear endorsement” of Anbumani Ramadoss' leadership.
The order also reiterated that the PMK’s mango serves as the official election symbol and confirmed the party’s current headquarters in T. Nagar as its recognized state office.
Significantly, the communication clarified that only those members aligned with Anbumani Ramadoss’ leadership are permitted to utilize the party name and symbol in any electoral scenario.
“The Election Commission has dispelled any uncertainties. Dr. Anbumani will persist as president, and the general secretary and treasurer will retain their positions until August 2026,” Balu stated.
He urged the media to refrain from portraying the PMK as divided into opposing factions, asserting that the party remains united under Dr. Anbumani.
Balu further stressed that while party founder Dr. S. Ramadoss is still honored as a guiding figure, the administrative control and decision-making authority now firmly rests with his son.
“The commission’s directive has provided immense satisfaction to our members. It clarifies that only those who accept Dr. Anbumani’s leadership can represent the PMK and utilize the mango symbol,” he mentioned.
Balu also encouraged members who had distanced themselves due to recent internal conflicts to return to the party.
“It is time to unite and fortify the party’s campaign to achieve a more significant role in Tamil Nadu’s political arena,” he added.
With the commission’s acknowledgment, PMK leaders feel the party has successfully navigated a significant obstacle ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, positioning Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss as the clear leader responsible for guiding the party’s future direction.