Chennai, April 5: Thol Thirumavalavan, the president of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), has announced that he will not contest the Kattumannarkoil constituency in the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. This decision puts an end to speculation regarding his candidacy.
In a conversation with the media, Thirumavalavan expressed his earlier desire to represent marginalized communities in the Assembly. However, he cited recent political developments and alliance strategies as reasons for his withdrawal.
“I have completed two years as an MP, and my long-term vision has always been to be the voice of the oppressed in the Assembly,” he stated.
Reflecting on his political journey, he emphasized that his decisions have consistently been in the public interest rather than driven by personal ambition. He recalled stepping down in 2004 and allowing others opportunities in 2006.
Thirumavalavan firmly rejected claims that he is in the running for the Deputy Chief Minister position or strategizing based on a potential hung Assembly. He asserted that such allegations are aimed at tarnishing his image and weakening the alliance.
He clarified that his candidacy was not halted due to pressure from the DMK. Instead, he stated that the decision on seat allocation is based on principles of social justice.
Thirumavalavan announced that the party will field Jyothimani, the son of former leader Ilaiyaperumal, as their candidate for the Kattumannarkoil seat.
He denied any internal disagreements within the party, affirming that all decisions have been made transparently.
He described the upcoming 2026 elections as a decisive battle against right-wing forces in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing that his primary goal is to ensure the victory of the DMK-led alliance. He expressed confidence that this alliance will secure over 200 seats and return to power.
In conclusion, he stated, “I never entered politics for positions. My past sacrifices are proof of that.”
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