In an unexpected turn of events, VK Sasikala, the ousted former chief of Tamil Nadu’s ruling AIADMK and close-aide of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, on Wednesday night announced her decision to keep away from politics.
Sasikala was released from a Bengaluru jail in January and was widely expected to challenge for control of the AIDMK, and the Chief Minister’s post, in next month’s election.
In a letter released Wednesday night Sasikala wrote: “I have never been after power or position even when Jaya was alive. Won’t do that after she is dead. I am staying away from politics to ensure continuation of AIADMK’s ‘golden rule’ in Tamil Nadu.”
“I will pray to God and my sister (Jayalalithaa) for AIADMK’s victory (and) urge supporters of AIADMK to work together and defeat the DMK (the primary opposition). I urge the party cadre to work to keep her legacy going,” she added.
Sasikala said she had remained the same person even after the death of Jayalalithaa, like how she was executing the ideas of the leader as her sister when she was alive.
“I am not for any position, title or power. I will remain grateful to the beloved cadre of Puratchi Thalaivi and the people of Tamil Nadu,” she said.
Sasikala’s nephew and Amma Makkal Munnettra Kazagam (AMMK) leader TTV Dhinakaran said he had tried to convince her for half an hour but she had been firm in her decision.
Dhinakaran, asserted that his party AMMK led by him would continue its political journey by contesting the ensuing Assembly elections.
Sasikala was released from Bengaluru prison in January after a four-year imprisonment in a disproportionate assets case.
