AIADMK merger Highlights | OPS, EPS factions unlikely to make announcement as no consensus on deal
The ruling party in Tamil Nadu split in February, two months after its supremo and chief minister J Jayalalithaa died. Two factions emerged: one led by O Panneerselvam, and another by EK Palaniswami that was seemingly in favour of VK Sasikala, the late CM’s confidante.
The AIADMK factions seemed to inch closer to deal on Friday after chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami accepted most of the rebel camp’s demands – led by O Panneerselvam – including a judicial investigation into the death of party supremo J Jayalalithaa last December.
Sources said an announcement on the merger was expected late on Friday evening, but by night, both factions remained deep in discussions over the same.
Palaniswami – also known by his initials EPS – and his predecessor, rebel leader O Panneerselvam – known as OPS – were expected to meet to formalise a unification deal that would include a power-sharing formula.
Live updates:
9:40pm: Merger announcement unlikely as both factions yet to arrive at a consensus.
9:20pm: Senior party leaders of the OPS faction say KP Munusamy and M Pandian are blocking merger since VK Sasikala continues to remain the party’s general secretary.
9:10pm: After four hours of meetings, no consensus yet on merger deal.
9:08pm: Meeting at Panneerselvam’s residence ends. To address media shortly.
8:25pm: Talks on at Panneerselvam’s residence. Former ministers KP Munusamy, K Panidarajan and other MLAs and MPs present. OPS has the support of 10 MLAs and about a dozen MPs.
8:15pm: Chief minister Palaniswami in meeting with Cabinet colleagues to deliberate on details of merger.
8:02pm: Sources say discussions are on over ministerial berths, but a consensus is yet to be reached.
7:57pm: Supporters gather at OPS’ residence.
7:52pm: Several state ministers make their way to Marina beach.
7:40pm: Party members of both factions arriving at AIADMK headquarters in Roypettah.
7:30pm: People begin gathering at the memorial.
7:15pm: O Panneerselvam and EK Palanswami expected to visit Jaya memorial on Marina beach shortly.
7pm: Security has been stepped up at Jaya Memorial on Marina beach, triggering speculation of an announcement. This was where O Panneerselvam started the revolt against Jayalalithaa’s long-time friend VK Sasikala on February 7 that split lead to the party split.