AIADMK veterans claim Palaniswami’s return while party rebuffs rebels in post-election turmoil
During an election tour on May 12, senior AIADMK figure Semmalai and MP Thambi Durai asserted that former chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami would soon return to power in Tamil Nadu. The statements were made as the party grapples with internal dissent and a setback in the recent assembly polls.
AIADMK, once a dominant force in the state, suffered a dramatic loss, prompting veteran leaders to rally support and reaffirm loyalty to Palaniswami’s leadership. Simultaneously, the official AIADMK social‑media account condemned a faction led by C.Ve. Shanmugam, labeling their claims “a bundle of lies”.
The Hindu reported the party’s social‑media post, while an AP correspondent noted that the rebels have been vocal about demanding a fresh leadership contest. AIADMK spokesperson R. Sivakumar said the rebels “are attempting to divide the party at a crucial juncture”.
Experts argue that the public display of unity by party elders is an attempt to prevent a splintering that could benefit the ruling DMK. Political scientist Dr. Anita Menon of the Indian Institute of Public Administration warned that “without decisive reconciliation, AIADMK risks fragmenting into multiple regional outfits, diluting its electoral strength”.
The party is expected to convene an internal meeting within two weeks to address the rebel faction’s grievances. Observers will watch whether Palaniswami secures the party’s nomination for the next Lok Sabha elections, a decision that could shape Tamil Nadu’s opposition landscape ahead of the 2026 general elections.