Former Tamil Nadu CM O. Panneerselvam Joins DMK Amidst Political Shift
In a significant political development, O. Panneerselvam, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, has joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) after being expelled from AIADMK in 2022. Known for his close ties with the late J. Jayalalithaa, Panneerselvam's transition comes after three years of unsuccessful attempts to rejoin his former party. This move, witnessed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, marks a notable shift in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, as Panneerselvam brings his supporters along with him into the DMK.
| Feb 27, 2026, 10:56 IST
O. Panneerselvam's Transition to DMK
O. Panneerselvam, who has served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu three times and was expelled from the AIADMK in 2022, officially joined the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Friday in the presence of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin.
Panneerselvam was regarded as a trusted aide of the late J. Jayalalithaa, the leader of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). After three years of unsuccessful attempts to return to his original party, he has now made the decision to align with the DMK, accompanied by his supporters.