**AIADMK Leader Calls for Unity Ahead of 2026 Elections**
Senior AIADMK leader K.A. Sengottaiyan has urged party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) to reintegrate members who have left the party, emphasizing that unity is essential for electoral success in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Sengottaiyan has given EPS a ten-day deadline to consider this call for unification, stating, “If we accept back those who left the party, we can win the elections. If it does not happen within this timeframe, those who departed will need to reconsider their stance on unity.”
In a media briefing, Sengottaiyan clarified that there are no preconditions for the reinstatement of former members, who are primarily seeking a unified AIADMK for the benefit of the public. “We must welcome back those who left us. They are not imposing any conditions; they simply desire unity and are willing to make sacrifices for the welfare of the people,” he remarked, adding that forgiveness should be the guiding principle of the party.
Sengottaiyan reiterated that his appeal to EPS is a sincere request, stating, “We will forgive, we will forgive. This should be the party motto.” He emphasized that the call for reconciliation is devoid of conditions, positions, or demands, focusing solely on strengthening the AIADMK ahead of the elections.
In response, expelled AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala expressed her support for Sengottaiyan’s position, recalling his loyalty during challenging times in the party’s history. She asserted that “AIADMK blood runs in Sengottaiyan’s veins” and called for all members to unite for the party’s success. “Let us unite, let us win,” Sasikala urged, encouraging leaders and members to set aside differences and collaborate to fortify the party before the elections.
Sengottaiyan also clarified that there are no demands for positions from those who distanced themselves from the party following the passing of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. He emphasized that he is not proposing Sasikala as the party’s chief ministerial candidate but is simply requesting EPS to welcome back all former members.
On September 2, Sengottaiyan announced plans to convene a meeting with his close supporters to openly discuss his views and outline his position on the matter.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why is K.A. Sengottaiyan calling for unity within the AIADMK?**
A: Sengottaiyan believes that unity among party members is crucial for achieving electoral success in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He has urged the reintegration of former members to strengthen the party’s position.
