AIADMK Candidate Interviews Spark Discontent as Aspirants Call Process a Mere Formality
In Chennai, the AIADMK's interview process to identify candidates for the upcoming assembly elections has entered its third day, drawing sharp criticism from many aspirants and party functionaries. They allege that the exercise has been reduced to a mere formality, with little opportunity for meaningful interaction.
Interview Format Draws Complaints
The interview panel, headed by general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, has been gathering candidates from seven to eight assembly segments at a time, despite slots being allotted for different segments. This group approach has left many aspirants frustrated.
Several candidates said the format allowed them minimal time to articulate their views or present their cases effectively. An aspirant from Trichy expressed disappointment, stating, The panel did not hear us out properly.
Contrast with Past Practices
Many long-time party members contrasted the current process with the approach of the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa. A former district secretary from the delta region recalled that Jayalalithaa made it a point to speak individually with all shortlisted candidates, even if they were assembled together.
An aspirant from Dindigul noted, Even if we did not get the ticket in the past, it gave us a chance to see and interact directly with our leader. That personal touch is missing now.
Motivation Speech Session
Several aspirants described the current exercise as more of a motivation speech session by party chief EPS than a genuine interview process. During these sessions, Palaniswami reportedly spoke about political developments and party strategy.
He mentioned that a few more parties will join the NDA alliance and appealed to party members to work together to ensure victory for the selected candidates. An aspirant from Thittakudi shared, He assured us that once the party forms the government, loyalists will be accommodated with positions and opportunities, including chairmanships of welfare boards and representation in local body polls.
Scale of the Process
The interviews began on January 9 and have so far involved more than 2,000 aspirants from approximately 50 district units. Overall, more than 7,000 aspirants submitted applications for consideration, indicating significant interest in party tickets.
Party Loyalty Despite Discontent
Despite their dissatisfaction with the interview process, many aspirants expressed continued loyalty to the party. An aspirant from Anthiyur stated, Nevertheless, we will work diligently for whichever candidate the party finally fields in our constituencies.
The discontent among aspirants highlights challenges in the AIADMK's candidate selection process as the party prepares for crucial assembly elections. With the interviews continuing, it remains to be seen how the party addresses these concerns while finalizing its candidate list.
