MDMK rules out any alliance plan

Senior functionaries of Vaiko’s party said the party would weigh the pros and cons of forging an alliance before the Parliamentary and Assembly elections. Mallai Sathya, deputy general secretary, MDMK, told DTNext, “Though we have exited from PWF, our party will continue to strive hard for people’s issues. Further, changes in political scenario may happen overnight and no one can predict swings as no one is a permanent friend or foe in politics.”  When asked if Vaiko’s rapport with the BJP triggered a speculation that the MDMK might join hands with the saffron party, Sathya stoutly denied such a theory. 

“It has always only been an issue-based support from MDMK to the Centre. For instance, our party supported the demonetisation move, but was strongly criticised the improper implementation,” he said. 

“Though we have come out of the PWF, Vaiko has been invited for a function where he will release a book on CPI veteran R Nallakannu’s life and leaders of other three allies —  CPI, CPM and VCK — have also been invited. Friendship is beyond politics,” said another MDMK’s second line leader.  When asked about R K Nagar by-election, he quipped “Vaiko will take the final call.” 

Meanwhile, political analysts say that MDMK’s exit from the PWF would be a big relief to others in the alliance. “Vaiko is the architect of the PWF with four parties, but he is also the first one leave and reduce its strength. Moreover, even in the past, Vaiko has caused embarrassing moments for the other three allies through his spontaneous statements,” said Aazhi Senthilnathan, a political critic. 

Asked whether any party in the state would like to strike an alliance with the MDMK, Senthilnathan replied “Vaiko will be viewed only as a political liability and it is unlikely that anyone will join hands with his party.”