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No talks were held with DMK, says Palaniswami
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami said no talks occurred with the DMK or any non-alliance party after the fractured mandate. He also outlined the alleged incentives given to rebel AIADMK MLAs to support the TVK government and described internal party dynamics surrounding the motion of confidence.
Why It Matters
The statement clarifies the AIADMK's stance on post-election coalition talks and highlights internal divisions within the party, as well as the dynamics behind a government formed with rebel support.
Timeline
8 Events
TVK strength and public support context
May 13, 2026
Palaniswami noted that TVK has 106 MLAs and that nearly 66% of electors voted against the party.
Candidate selection based on district secretaries' recommendations
May 13, 2026
He stated that the selection of election candidates was based on the recommendations of district secretaries.
Rebel group size and reference to court rulings
May 13, 2026
Palaniswami addressed the claim that the rebel group had 25 members, saying one must consider who holds control of the party and noting that court rulings align with this principle.
No discussions with DMK confirmed
May 13, 2026
When asked about talks with the DMK to form a government, Palaniswami reiterated that there were no talks with the DMK and that such talks did not occur with any non-alliance party.
Internal party criticism and perceived misdirection by some former ministers
May 13, 2026
Palaniswami criticized some former ministers for steering fellow MLAs astray in their bid to become ministers, calling it a bad precedent and emphasizing the need for a clean government in all aspects.
AIADMK MLAs elect Palaniswami as Legislature Party leader; whip appointed
May 13, 2026
The AIADMK MLAs convened and elected Palaniswami as the Legislature Party leader. Officials, including the whip, were appointed; former Minister Agri S.S. Krishnamurthy was named whip.
Rebel AIADMK MLAs reportedly voted for TVK motion of confidence
May 13, 2026
Palaniswami stated that rebel AIADMK MLAs voted in favor of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government’s motion of confidence after being promised six cabinet berths and 10 chairperson posts on boards, following the motion.
Palaniswami says no talks with DMK or other parties beyond alliance partners
May 13, 2026
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami stated that no talks were held with any party other than alliance partners to form a government after the Assembly election produced a fractured mandate.