I and EPS were appointed CMs, Stalin elected by people, says O. Panneerselvam

Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam admitted that both he and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami were only ‘appointed’ Chief Ministers, whereas M. K. Stalin was the one truly elected by the people.

An election campaign meeting was held on behalf of the DMK at Kalayarkovil, Sivaganga district. Speaking at the event, Mr. Panneerselvam said: “Stalin has provided excellent governance for all people without bias for five years. His initiatives are visionary projects that have taken the economy to its peak. While India’s economic growth is below 8%, he has raised Tamil Nadu’s growth to 11%, standing as the leading Chief Minister.”

He further noted, “The Central Government returns only 4% of the tax revenue collected from the people of Tamil Nadu. Despite the lack of central funds, the CM implements both Central and State schemes without hindrance. His schemes have reached women effectively. While industries were concentrated in northern and western districts in the past, the CM has now brought industrial growth to southern districts by engaging with foreign companies.”

Regarding AIADMK, he remarked: “My father was a fan of Karunanidhi. Due to dictatorial and arrogant behaviour, the state of the AIADMK is now pathetic. Because Palaniswami thought only he should be the CM and General Secretary, the story of the AIADMK is over. Palaniswami and R.B. Udhayakumar have dug a grave with a spade and buried the AIADMK. Ministers like C.V. Shanmugam and Dindigul C. Sreenivasan have brought the party to a point where it is spoken of as a farce.”

“Palaniswami and I were appointed CMs; only Anna, Karunanidhi, MGR, Jayalalithaa, and Stalin were elected by the people. With the training received from his father, M. K. Stalin is protecting social justice. He must continue as CM who leaves a mark on history,” he added.

Later, speaking to reporters, he stated: “The prospect of M. K. Stalin becoming Chief Minister again is bright. In the current political climate, no party is qualified to compete against the DMK. The people’s mindset is that there are no worthy competitors to the DMK.”