TVK is set to convene its next alliance parties’ meeting in Chennai on September 9, with discussions expected on upcoming by-elections and local body polls, coordination among partners and a minimum common programme.
The TVK government led by Chief Minister Vijay has Congress, VCK and the Muslim League in the cabinet, while the CPI and CPI(M) are extending support from outside. MDMK has also joined the TVK alliance.
TVK ministers Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, Nirmalkumar and Rajmohan visited the CPI and CPI(M) offices to invite them for the September 9 meeting. A similar leaders’ meeting chaired by Vijay on July 1 was not attended by the two Communist parties.
CPI Tamil Nadu state secretary Veerappandian said the Communist parties are not part of the TVK cabinet or alliance and will not join them, adding that the party will decide whether to attend the September 9 meeting. He also said democratic forces would be united to ensure the BJP does not continue in power at the Centre and that strengthening the INDIA alliance is a duty.
Meanwhile, TVK ministers met MDMK general secretary Vaiko in Anna Nagar, Chennai. Vaiko said MDMK would participate in the alliance consultation meeting and praised the impact of live telecast of Assembly proceedings, the ministers’ responses to questions, Vijay’s English speech, and the government’s stated focus on eliminating corruption and commission practices in offices.
