Chennai: In a statement issued by The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on Sunday, the party confirmed that Vijay, Tamil Nadu’s most beloved actors, will be its Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. TVK also has declared that it will enter into a political alliance only with parties that acknowledge the leadership of its founder and Tamil superstar, Vijay. This announcement follows discussions about the party’s future alliances, particularly with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). 

Rumours of AIADMK alliance put to rest

Reports had suggested that TVK and AIADMK were in talks about securing a potential alliance, which reportedly included discussions about the Deputy Chief Minister's post and 60 Assembly seats for the 2026 elections. However, TVK's statement has now put those rumours to rest, clarifying that the party is determined to stand on its own terms.

Vijay's political journey 

Vijay had launched TVK in February 2024, a move that stirred significant political attention. His fan group, Vijay Makkal Iyakkam, had already made its mark by contesting the 2021 local body elections, securing 115 seats. 

During the party's launch, Vijay stated that TVK would not be contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, opting instead to focus on the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections in 2026. He emphasised that the party's primary goal is to bring about "fundamental political change" in the state.

"Our goal is to contest the 2026 Assembly elections and lead the fundamental political change that people need," Vijay said.

Addressing political issues in Tamil Nadu

Vijay also addressed the key issues affecting Tamil Nadu's political landscape, saying, "On one hand, corruption is deeply rooted in society and administration, and on the other, politics of hate and divisiveness is taking over."

These remarks reflected his commitment to addressing what he perceives as the core challenges facing the state.

TVK’s inaugural rally and ideological framework

On October 27, 2024, TVK held its inaugural rally in Villupuram, where Vijay introduced the party’s ideological framework, which combines Dravidian principles with Tamil nationalism. The rally, held in Vikkaravandi, attracted an impressive crowd of more than 300,000 people, marking a significant milestone in the party’s political journey. 

During his speech, Vijay was critical of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), accusing it of being a "family-centric party" that exploits the Dravidian identity for personal gain. Additionally, he condemned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for promoting "divisive politics."

Vijay also urged TVK members to engage with political rivals respectfully. He specifically addressed criticisms from Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) leader Seeman, advising TVK members to respond to such criticisms with "facts and decorum."

Furthermore, Vijay emphasised the importance of responding constructively and respectfully to criticism, particularly on social media platforms. With its firm stance on leadership and its clearly defined ideological framework, TVK is positioning itself as a formidable force in Tamil Nadu’s 2026 Assembly elections.

IANS