Chennai: M K Stalin on Saturday announced that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam will unveil its election manifesto on Sunday and launch its statewide campaign on March 31, signalling a major push ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026 scheduled for April 23.

The announcement came as the DMK released its list of 164 candidates, marking a key milestone in its election strategy for the upcoming polls.

DMK candidate list highlights education, diversity and fresh faces

Emphasising representation and qualifications, CM Stalin said the candidate list reflects a mix of experience, education, and youth.

  • 125 candidates are graduates
  • 18 women candidates included
  • 7 PhD holders
  • 15 doctors
  • 17 engineers
  • 29 law graduates

In a move aimed at organisational renewal, more than 60 new faces have been fielded, signalling the party’s focus on youth participation and political inclusivity.

“We have ensured a balance between experience and youth. These candidates represent people’s aspirations and the future direction of the party,” Stalin said.

DMK defends delay in candidate announcement

Responding to criticism over the timing of the candidate list—especially after rivals such as the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam released their nominees earlier—Stalin said the delay was due to extensive consultations within the alliance partners.

“We have a broad alliance. We held detailed discussions with all partners, ensured consensus, and finalised the list carefully,” he said.

Focus on alliance unity and early election preparation

CM Stalin stressed that alliance unity remains the top priority as the party heads into a high-stakes electoral battle.

“This is the time to bring everyone together. The DMK has formed a strong alliance and is moving forward with collective strength,” he added.

He also noted that preparations for the Tamil Nadu polls 2026 began immediately after the parliamentary elections, highlighting the party’s early planning and structured campaign strategy.

With the DMK manifesto release and campaign launch scheduled, the party is gearing up for an intense contest, banking on a diverse candidate list, strong alliance, and voter-focused promises to secure victory in the upcoming Assembly elections.

IANS