Can Sasikala Unite AIADMK Ahead of the 2026 Assembly Elections?
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Synopsis
As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, V.K. Sasikala calls for unity within the AIADMK factions, highlighting the party workers' desire for a united front. Her appeal underscores the challenges of reconciliation and reflects the high stakes for the party's future in Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Sasikala emphasizes the need for AIADMK unity.
- Reconciliation is viewed as essential for electoral success.
- The party's future hinges on overcoming internal divisions.
- Senior leaders support the call for unification.
- Political alliances are shifting as elections approach.
Chennai, Sep 15 (NationPress) Former AIADMK interim general secretary V.K. Sasikala, who was ousted, has once again urged for the consolidation of AIADMK factions ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, emphasizing that party members throughout Tamil Nadu desire a unified approach.
During her conversation with reporters at her residence in Poes Garden, Sasikala — who was once a close ally of the late J. Jayalalithaa — highlighted that the party’s electoral success hinges on achieving reconciliation.
“Every member of AIADMK yearns for the factions to come together before the 2026 Assembly elections. I share this desire,” she remarked, stressing that this unity should occur prior to the elections, not post.
She acknowledged that achieving reconciliation would be challenging, noting, “It’s easy to dismiss someone, but welcoming them back into the fold is significantly more difficult. This process requires time.”
Sasikala emphasized that the primary objective of the party is to end the DMK’s governance and rejuvenate the “Amma” era that Jayalalithaa represented.
“My efforts will focus on merging factions and ensuring the party’s success,” she stated.
Encouraging members to look ahead, she added, “Let the past be considered concluded. May the future unfold positively.”
Her statements resonated with senior AIADMK leader K.A. Sengottaiyan, who has been an advocate for reconciliation.
Reinforcing his previous call for unity, the former minister stated in Erode, “Let us move forward with forgiveness. I have already indicated that AIADMK must unify to strengthen itself.”
Sengottaiyan had previously set a ten-day limit for party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami to initiate steps to reintegrate expelled leaders.
In the meantime, Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazagam (AMMK) general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran, who was also expelled from AIADMK, expressed a more cautious stance.
While he welcomed the idea of unity, he firmly rejected the notion of accepting Palaniswami as the Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2026 elections. Dhinakaran had recently cut ties with the BJP, which continues to endorse Palaniswami as its preferred Chief Ministerial candidate.
However, BJP state president K. Nainar Nagendran showed a willingness to consider a broader alliance, expressing readiness to negotiate with Dhinakaran and former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam to reintegrate them into the NDA fold.
With the Assembly elections looming, the increasing call for unity within AIADMK underscores the critical stakes — not only for the party’s future but also for the political dynamics in Tamil Nadu in 2026.
aal/rad
Point of View
Sasikala's renewed call for AIADMK unity highlights the ongoing challenges within the party and its quest for survival in Tamil Nadu's competitive political environment. As we approach the 2026 elections, the emphasis on reconciliation is crucial for not only the party's integrity but also for shaping Tamil Nadu's political future. The situation warrants close observation as alliances shift and strategies unfold.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sasikala's role in AIADMK?
V.K. Sasikala was the interim general secretary of AIADMK and a close aide to J. Jayalalithaa. Despite being ousted, she continues to play a significant role in urging for party unification.
Why is unity important for AIADMK?
Unity within AIADMK is crucial for improving the party's electoral prospects in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, as divided factions may weaken their position against rivals like DMK.
What challenges does AIADMK face?
AIADMK faces internal divisions and the challenge of reconciling different factions, which could impact their effectiveness and cohesion leading up to the elections.
What has been the response to Sasikala's appeal?
Sasikala's appeal for unity has found support among some senior leaders, like K.A. Sengottaiyan, who also advocates for reconciliation to strengthen the party.
How does the BJP relate to the situation?
The BJP has shown support for Edappadi K. Palaniswami as a potential Chief Ministerial candidate but is also open to alliances with other factions, indicating a complex political landscape.
