Chennai: AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on internal detractors, accusing them of attempting to weaken the party despite having previously enjoyed power and organisational positions. He asserted that their efforts would ultimately fail.
Palaniswami's Message to Party Functionaries
In a letter addressed to party cadres, Palaniswami urged them not to lose hope regarding the party's political future and advised against taking extreme steps. He said, "Our leaders Puratchi Thalaivar MGR and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma will always be with us. Do not be dejected by the party's current situation. AIADMK has overcome difficult phases in 1988, 1989 and 1996."
Recalling Past Challenges
Palaniswami reminded cadres that the AIADMK had won only four seats in the 1996 assembly elections. He highlighted how party supremo J Jayalalithaa faced betrayal with courage and successfully steered the party back to victory in the subsequent election. This historical reference was intended to instill confidence among the workers.
Appeal Against Extreme Steps
Referring to the recent suicide of party functionary K.S. Mahendran in Thanjavur district amid the ongoing internal rift, Palaniswami appealed to cadres and functionaries not to resort to such drastic actions. He stated, "Our leaders witnessed both victories and defeats. Cadres should not lose heart over defeats." He expressed confidence that the party would return to power.
Assurance of Revival
The AIADMK chief assured cadres that the leadership would take all necessary steps to revive the party and sought their continued support. He emphasized that internal detractors would not succeed in their attempts to destabilize the organisation.
