Tamil Nadu’s political landscape heated up as O Panneerselvam, ex-Chief Minister and AIADMK stalwart, declared he would abandon politics if proven culpable of any misconduct. This came during interactions with the press following tributes to J Jayalalithaa on her 78th birthday, where he also shot down speculations of launching a separate party.
Deeply emotional at the event, OPS reiterated his dedication to reuniting AIADMK and safeguarding its storied heritage. His actions and words highlighted a man driven by loyalty rather than opportunism.
Addressing his relationship with TTV Dhinakaran, Panneerselvam acknowledged mutual respect but maintained boundaries in political discourse. On contesting elections again, he left it to fate, keeping supporters guessing.
In a sharp critique, OPS held Palaniswami responsible for creating dual leadership positions – coordinator and co-coordinator – merely as a stopgap against infighting. He dismissed claims that his moves undermined the party, calling on members to discern true motives.
Highlighting AIADMK’s poor electoral show under current stewardship, OPS pointed to consecutive losses as evidence of leadership failures. He and his allies are locked in court fights to restore MGR-era rules, aiming to resurrect the party’s glory.
Panneerselvam rejected notions of self-serving agendas, openly inviting proof of his faults to trigger his political retirement. He forecasted DMK’s strengthened coalition dominating 2026 elections, exploiting AIADMK’s divisions.
Reflecting on betrayals endured, OPS posed a poignant question to the public: what stand should he take now? His words resonate as a clarion call for introspection within the fractured party.