Chennai, March 25: Actor-politician Kamal Haasan announced on Tuesday that his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), will not participate in the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections. Instead, the party will offer unconditional support to the DMK-led coalition. He cited broader political priorities and the interests of the state as reasons for this decision.
Addressing party members and the media, Haasan explained that this decision followed extensive discussions and continues MNM’s previous stance during the 2024 parliamentary elections, when the party joined the DMK-led coalition.
He stated that MNM has worked sincerely for the coalition’s success, which has helped strengthen its voice at the national level, including representation in the Rajya Sabha.
Haasan emphasized that MNM has adhered to the principles of the coalition without compromising its independent identity.
However, he acknowledged that the recent seat-sharing negotiations for the upcoming assembly elections did not yield acceptable results for MNM.
Haasan mentioned that discussions with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and members of the DMK negotiation team were conducted in a cordial and respectful atmosphere, reflecting mutual understanding.
Despite this, he noted that the number of seats allocated to MNM and the suggestion to contest under the DMK’s ‘Rising Sun’ symbol were not acceptable to him or the party workers.
The party leader highlighted the emotional connection of MNM workers to the party’s ‘Battery Torch’ symbol, stating that it represents the identity of a movement built over the past nine years.
He further asserted that this symbol is not merely an electoral emblem but a reflection of their journey and values, stressing the importance of maintaining the party’s distinct political identity.
Acknowledging the political realities and electoral equations affecting the DMK’s position, Haasan stated that MNM has prioritized the broader interests of Tamil Nadu over electoral participation.
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