An important turning point has come in the politics of Tamil Nadu. Viduthalai Chiruthigal Katchi (VCK) President Thol Thirumavalavan has announced not to contest from Kattumannarkoil seat in the 2026 assembly elections. His decision has put an end to the ongoing speculations regarding his candidature.
Thol Thirumavalavan said that he had earlier expressed his desire to raise the voice of the deprived communities in the Assembly, but considering the current political situation and the strategy of the alliance, he has decided to step back. He said that he has completed two years as an MP and his long term thinking is to go to the Assembly and become the voice of the oppressed classes.
Public interest given priority
Referring to his political journey, he said that his decisions have always been in public interest and not on the basis of personal ambitions. He also recalled his decision to step down in 2004 and step back in 2006 to give others a chance. Thirumavalavan categorically rejected that he was in the race for the post of Deputy Chief Minister or was making any strategy keeping in mind the situation of a hung assembly. He said that such things are being spread to tarnish his image and weaken the alliance.
Denial of DMK pressure
He clarified that his candidature has not been stopped due to pressure from DMK. He says that seat sharing decisions are taken on the basis of principles of social justice. Thol Thirumavalavan announced that Jyothimani, the younger son of former leader Ilaiyapperumal, would be fielded as the party’s candidate from the Kattumannarkoil seat. He denied any differences of opinion in the party and said that all decisions have been taken with transparency.
Big statement on 2026 elections
He described the upcoming 2026 assembly elections as a decisive battle against right-wing forces in Tamil Nadu. He said that his main aim is to ensure the victory of the DMK-led alliance and he is confident that this alliance will return to power by winning more than 200 seats. Thirumavalavan finally said that he never entered politics for office. According to him, his past sacrifices are the biggest proof of this.