SC verdict not a setback for Panneerselvam, AIADMK should unite before 2024, says Sasikala | Unique

J Jayalalithaa’s former aide and AIADMK’s current contender VK Sasikala has voiced her support for recently ousted leader O Panneerselvam, exclusively telling CNN-News18 that there is a need to validate Edappadi Palaniswami’s leadership position within the party. The Supreme Court order is not a “blow”.

“I don’t think the recent Supreme Court verdict is a setback for Panneerselvam,” Sasikala said.

Ever since Sasikala stepped out of jail after four years of imprisonment, she has been joining the call for a united AIADMK. However, the party continues to support Palaniswami.

Sasikala feels that the AIADMK should get rid of factionalism and unite ahead of the Erode East bypoll.

“I don’t know how much the current rift within the party has affected AIADMK’s prospects. But with regard to the Erode East bypoll, the chances would have been better if they had worked together,” she said.

Sasikala also took a jibe at Palaniswami over the recent Supreme Court verdict, saying it is not the endgame for OPS as of now. “I don’t think it is a setback because there are legal options and civil courts. So it is certainly not a setback and Panneerselvam should not see it as a setback either.

While the BJP made it clear that it wanted both the factions to unite, Sasikala also agreed and said that the AIADMK should unite and face the 2024 elections with full force.

“I wish that we all unite before the 2024 elections and get a resounding victory in the elections. It definitely will. All cadres want a united AIADMK,” she said.

For now, Palaniswami has the support of a majority of General Council members and the party cadre. With the Supreme Court ruling in his favour, EPS is all set to become the General Secretary of the party. However, his numero uno position can sometimes lead to hindrances from Panneerselvam’s side within the party.

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