Will PMK founder Ramadoss Serve as Party President for Life?
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Synopsis
In a bold declaration, PMK founder S. Ramadoss has committed to serving as the party's President indefinitely, emphasizing his dedication to the party's future over personal ambition. Discover the motivations behind this significant decision and what it means for PMK's leadership structure.
Key Takeaways
- S. Ramadoss will serve as PMK President for life.
- His decision is based on conscience, not ambition.
- Anbumani Ramadoss is now the Working President.
- He has built PMK through extensive grassroots efforts.
- Future electoral alliances will be discussed at the next council meeting.
Chennai, June 26 (NationPress) The founder of Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), S. Ramadoss, declared on Thursday that he will continue as the party's President for life. He emphasized that his decision stems from his conscience, rather than a pursuit of power or political position.
Speaking from his home in Thailapuram near Tindivanam, S. Ramadoss stated, "I am not interested in the perks of office. My conscience compels me to take on the role of party President once more to lead the cadres and secure the party's future."
He pointed out that his son and former Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss has already held the position of PMK President for three years.
"I have now appointed him as the party's Working President, a significant role. Once he accepts this, the deadlock concerning certain internal issues will be resolved," he remarked.
In a comparison to the late M. Karunanidhi, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and DMK leader, S. Ramadoss mentioned that he is following the legacy of his late friend.
"Karunanidhi led the DMK while also being the Chief Minister. Even his son, M.K. Stalin, the current Chief Minister, has never objected to this arrangement," he noted.
However, S. Ramadoss expressed frustration with certain media outlets.
"Reporters who never questioned Karunanidhi's dual roles in the past are now probing me about my position as party president," he stated.
He dismissed any implication that he is seeking political power or personal gain, asserting that he has maintained close relationships with at least five Prime Ministers, including the current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but has never pursued a role in the Union Cabinet.
"If I had wanted power, I could have taken any position. That has never been my goal," he affirmed.
Reflecting on the PMK's development, S. Ramadoss mentioned that he established the role of party president.
"I built this party (PMK) through visits to 96,000 villages. It should be clear who my successor will be," he hinted at Anbumani Ramadoss as his eventual successor.
He also recalled mentoring several party leaders, including Dalit Ezhilmalai, E. Ponnuswamy, and A.K. Moorthy, who later became Union Ministers.
In response to inquiries about Anbumani Ramadoss's recent dismissal of some party officials, S. Ramadoss stated, "I appointed many of those individuals in recognition of their contributions to the party and the public. They will retain their positions."
When asked about forming alliances, he mentioned that the PMK will decide on any electoral partnerships at the next general council meeting after discussions with senior party leaders and cadres.
Point of View
S. Ramadoss's commitment to remain as PMK President highlights the interplay of personal conviction in political leadership. His emphasis on guiding the party's future over seeking power reflects a notable trend in contemporary politics, where experience and loyalty are often prioritized over ambition. The implications of this decision resonate within the party and among its supporters, reinforcing the need for strong leadership rooted in values and service.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted S. Ramadoss to remain as party president?
S. Ramadoss stated that his decision is guided by his conscience and a commitment to the party's future rather than a desire for power.
What role has Anbumani Ramadoss taken in the party?
Anbumani Ramadoss has been appointed as the Working President of PMK, a significant position intended to help resolve internal matters.
How does S. Ramadoss compare himself to M. Karunanidhi?
S. Ramadoss draws a parallel between his leadership style and that of M. Karunanidhi, who led the DMK while also serving as Chief Minister without objection.
What is S. Ramadoss's stance on seeking political office?
He has firmly rejected any suggestions that he is seeking political power or material gain, emphasizing his dedication to the party's mission.
What future plans does PMK have regarding alliances?
PMK plans to decide on potential electoral alliances during the next general council meeting, after consulting with senior leaders.
