Chennai: In a major political realignment ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, former Chief Minister and expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam (OPS) has joined the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in the presence of Chief Minister M K Stalin.
The 75-year-old OPS, once a trusted aide of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa and a three-time interim Chief Minister, formally became a DMK member at the party’s headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, on Friday. He expressed joy at joining what he called the “mother party” founded by C N Annadurai.
Addressing the media after induction, OPS said, “Today, I have happily joined the DMK founded by Annadurai. I thank DMK leader Stalin, who is running the party well. EPS’s arrogance and misuse of power have created conditions where AIADMK can never win elections again.” He praised Stalin’s governance, noting, “The chief minister has delivered good governance, and the state is witnessing it. Especially women are happy with the facilities provided by the DMK government for running families.” Slamming his former colleague Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS), OPS added, “EPS is running the party in a dictatorial manner, and the AIADMK is heading towards decline.”
On speculation of joining under pressure, OPS clarified, “This decision is my own, after years of bitterness. In the coming elections, if Stalin gives me an opportunity, I will contest. No one in the DMK can oppose it.”
Stalin welcomed OPS warmly on X, posting with photos: “Former Chief Minister and my dear brother Shri O Panneerselvam has joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).” I heartily welcome him. Known as a great leader of the Dravidian movement, he has joined our great movement to protect its ideology.” Stalin framed the 2026 polls as a battle between Tamil Nadu and “fascist BJP”, adding that democratic forces, including OPS, are aligning with the DMK-led alliance. He described OPS as “a lovable, virtuous, and humble person”, wishing his arrival brings welfare and victory for Tamil Nadu.
This switch could reshape Dravidian politics and weaken the AIADMK’s base in the run-up to the polls.