CHENNAI: AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami has expressed dissatisfaction with the party's functioning in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur districts, considered the ruling party's stronghold, citing internal issues that have weakened the organisation in these regions.

The third round of interviews with aspirants who had submitted applications expressing interest in contesting in the State capital region were in for a jolt as the party chief lashed out at them for not improving the party. The interviews were held at the party headquarters in Chennai, with Palaniswami conducting one-on-one interactions with the aspirants.

Aspirants from Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu districts took part in the exercise. Addressing the aspirants and party functionaries, Palaniswami said the party’s performance in these districts has not been satisfactory.

While noting that the overall functioning of the party and alliance arrangements were progressing well, he said the AIADMK had become weak in Chennai and its surrounding districts due to internal differences among party functionaries. These issues, he said, were adversely affecting organisational strength in key urban and semi-urban regions.

Emphasising the electoral significance of these districts, Palaniswami said securing victory in 30 to 40 Assembly constituencies in these areas would be crucial for forming the government, underscoring the need to gain a foothold against the DMK. He urged party office bearers and cadres to recognise the significance of these districts and work with greater unity and commitment to strengthen the party’s prospects in the forthcoming elections.