Erstwhile Bharatiya Janata Party Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai has extended his support to Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS), AIADMK General Secretary, as the chief ministerial candidate of the National Democratic Alliance at the state level. This is a notable turn from Annamalai's earlier stand, where he said only NDA's central leadership could declare the alliance's chief ministerial face, a view that had created tensions between the two parties.
The reconciliation was made public when Annamalai shared a stage with Palaniswami at an event in Chennai to honour the late Tamil Maanila Congress leader GK Moopanar. Addressing the gathering, Annamalai said, "Former Chief Minister and NDA alliance Chief Ministerial candidate, Edapadi K Palaniswami just now spoke on stage. You all said that he will sit on the Chief Minister's chair in 2026. Let the change happen in 2026, let a new revolution happen and let the government work for the prosperity of the poor."
Annamalai’s sudden change of heart led to questions, particularly given his past criticisms of Palaniswami, whom he had once referred to as a "Tharkuri," a term for a person lacking knowledge.
In response to the queries, Annamalai explained that he was simply a party cadre and was "duty bound to act on the decision taken by the leaders." He stressed the importance of party discipline, stating, "Party has said, Prime Minister Modi has said and so it is my duty." Annamalai also said that while he may have personal suggestions, his position requires him to toe the party line.
Also read: TN Minister's son declines medal garland from Annamalai
Follow us
