The MDMK general secretary announced that the party will stay away from the upcoming bypolls while outlining its future electoral plans and commenting on recent political developments.
Tirunelveli: Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) General Secretary Vaiko has announced that the party will not contest the upcoming seven Assembly by-elections in Tamil Nadu. Speaking to reporters in Tirunelveli, Vaiko said the party had taken the decision after assessing the prevailing political situation and reiterated that MDMK remains open to contesting future elections under its own independent symbol.
During the interaction, Vaiko recalled the party’s previous electoral experience and alleged that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) had earlier insisted that MDMK contest elections under the Rising Sun symbol. Referring to political developments from the past, he said reports had suggested that the DMK had once decided to extend outside support to an AIADMK-led government. He remarked that if those reports were accurate, it would amount to one of the biggest political betrayals witnessed in Tamil Nadu politics.
Vaiko also spoke about leaders who had left the MDMK over the years. He said those who departed from the party had not merely betrayed him politically but had caused him personal pain. At the same time, he stated that he does not believe in criticising former colleagues and wished them well wherever they are. He added that several leaders who had left the party had later met him again, indicating that political relationships often evolve over time.
Commenting on the present political landscape in Tamil Nadu, Vaiko said he considers the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as part of the broader Dravidian movement. He also praised Chief Minister Vijay, stating that the government has been functioning without corruption and claiming that the prevailing commission culture had been eliminated under the present administration. His remarks come amid continuing political debates over governance, transparency and administrative reforms in the state.
Reiterating the MDMK’s electoral strategy, Vaiko confirmed that the party would not field candidates in the seven Assembly bypolls scheduled in Tamil Nadu. However, he clarified that the decision should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from electoral politics. He said the party is prepared to contest future elections independently under its own symbol if circumstances require such a move. The announcement provides clarity on the MDMK’s immediate political approach ahead of the by-elections.
Vaiko also announced that an English book compiling his speeches in Parliament will be released in New Delhi on August 4. According to him, Chief Minister Vijay is expected to participate in the book release function. The event is likely to highlight Vaiko’s long parliamentary career and contributions to national political debates.
The MDMK leader’s remarks covered a range of political issues, including electoral strategy, party unity, alliances and governance. While confirming that the party will stay away from the upcoming bypolls, Vaiko emphasised that MDMK remains committed to public life and is prepared to shape its future political course independently. The announcement is expected to influence discussions surrounding alliance politics and opposition strategies in Tamil Nadu as preparations for future elections continue.