AIADMK Member of Parliament and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha M. Thambi Durai has expressed confidence that party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami may return to power. Speaking to journalists outside Mr. Palaniswami’s residence on Friday, May 8, 2026, the AIADMK veteran cited evident public sentiment in favor of the party’s return observed during the general secretary’s election tour.
Potential for Dravidian Alliance
The discussions come amid speculation regarding a possible truce between the two major Dravidian parties, the AIADMK and the DMK. Mr. Thambi Durai noted that the decision regarding such an alliance rests with Mr. Palaniswami.
He is the second senior leader to avoid dismissing the possibility of a “patch up” between the parties. On Thursday, May 7, former Health Minister S. Semmalai stated after meeting with Mr. Palaniswami that the party leader would be the “king and not the kingmaker.”
According to Mr. Semmalai, the general secretary is expected to lead the decision-making process on whether to align with the DMK.
Addressing Internal Stability
The party has also addressed rumors concerning the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). When asked if TVK leader K.A. Sengottaiyan was attempting to attract a section of the AIADMK’s newly-elected legislators, the former Minister dismissed the claims as mere speculation.
The former Minister maintained that the party’s legislators are “not naive” and would not be swayed by such moves. He emphasized that the legislators remain “bound by the general secretary’s word.”
Looking Ahead
The political landscape may shift depending on the final call made by Edappadi K. Palaniswami. A possible next step could involve a formal announcement regarding the AIADMK’s stance on the DMK alliance.
the stability of the AIADMK’s newly-elected legislators will likely remain a key point of interest as the party navigates these government formation discussions. Further statements from senior leadership will emerge as the party clarifies its strategic direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who expressed hope for AIADMK’s return to power? M. Thambi Durai, an AIADMK Member of Parliament and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, expressed this hope on May 8, 2026. What was the response to rumors about TVK leader K.A. Sengottaiyan? The former Minister dismissed the idea that K.A. Sengottaiyan was wooing AIADMK legislators as speculation, stating the legislators are not naive and are bound by the general secretary’s word. What did S. Semmalai say about Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s role? S. Semmalai stated that the party leader would be the “king and not the kingmaker” and would make a “firm and good decision” regarding an alliance with the DMK. Do you think a truce between the major Dravidian parties is the most likely path to government formation?
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