TVK-led government clarifies that rebel AIADMK MLAs supporting the government will not receive cabinet positions, securing allies backing.

Rebel AIADMK MLAs Excluded from Cabinet

Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has ruled out offering cabinet posts to rebel AIADMK MLAs who are extending support to the government. The clarification was made following warnings from the VCK and CPI(M) that such a move could jeopardize their support. VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan confirmed that his party had been assured no rebel AIADMK legislators would be accommodated, easing concerns about potential conflicts within the alliance.

The decision comes amid speculation that a breakaway faction of AIADMK supporting the TVK government could be rewarded with ministerial berths during the upcoming cabinet expansion. The Left parties, including CPI(M), also expressed reservations about sharing power with these rebel legislators, reinforcing TVK’s decision to exclude them from the ministry.

Cabinet Expansion and Alliance Dynamics

Chief Minister Vijay, who assumed office on May 10, is preparing for a major cabinet expansion while accommodating allies like the Congress, which is expected to receive two berths. TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna stated that parties committed to social justice and supporting the government were being prioritized, including invitations extended to VCK and IUML.

The cabinet could ultimately expand to nearly 34 members, with TVK retaining key portfolios while balancing alliance commitments and regional-caste considerations. The swearing-in ceremony for new ministers is anticipated at Raj Bhavan, Chennai, with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar officiating. This move reflects TVK’s approach to power-sharing and coalition management, marking the first extensive alliance-inclusive ministry in Tamil Nadu since 1967.