Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, May 18: Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Tuesday extended an olive branch to rebel leaders within the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, asking them to come forward for discussions if they felt there were issues within the party.

The remarks came amid a signature campaign launched by dissident leaders demanding that the party’s General Council, its highest decision-making body, be convened to discuss repeated electoral defeats.

In response, Palaniswami convened a meeting of district secretaries, including newly appointed functionaries who replaced MLAs removed from party posts, in what is being viewed as a show of strength.

Interestingly, the meeting was held at Palaniswami’s Greenways Road residence instead of the party headquarters.

The AIADMK leader also launched a sharp attack on the ruling Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.

“Problems are natural in any political party. Let us solve our problems through discussion. The TVK government, which depends on support from five parties, will not last long,” Palaniswami said.

He further stated that he would continue to follow the principles of party founder M. G. Ramachandran and late AIADMK supremo J. Jayalalithaa in forgiving party workers who regretted their mistakes.

“Our party will overcome every crisis and bounce back soon,” he added.

Palaniswami also accused the ruling TVK government of attempting to engineer defections within AIADMK through inducements and alleged horse-trading.

He dismissed as mere speculation reports suggesting possible talks between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and AIADMK to form a government aimed at keeping TVK out of power.