AIADMK merger talks today: Will OPS return as Tamil Nadu CM?

On Saturday, both factions had agreed that EPS would look after the party while OPS would take over as the CM.

The merger talks of the AIADMK will commence from Monday onwards. Both the E Palanisamy and O Panneerselvam factions have formed committees which will hold formal rounds of talks. While both factions have agreed to merge in principle, there are certain differences they would like to iron out before finalising the merger.

On Saturday, both factions had agreed that EPS would look after the party while OPS would take over as the CM. The OPS team has been demanding that he be made the CM while EPS must take control of the party. Earlier it was said that EPS would continue as the CM while OPS would handle the party.

The change in stance by the EPS camp was owing to the vulnerability of the government. It requires just 6 MLAs to revolt in the 122 member government for it to topple. OPS who is emerging as a strong contender is capable of staging that revolt as he continues to blow the anti-Sasikala bugle.

What is likely to happen:

Palanisami will step down as CM and hand over the post to OPS. Health minister, Vijaybhaskar will be dropped following the IT raids at his place that were conducted recently. Senthil Balaji will be inducted into the ministry along with two others.

Balaji is likely to get the health portfolio which is now held by Vijaybhaskar. It may be recalled that Balaji who was part of Jayalalithaa's cabinet was dropped after he announced himself as the successor.

A merger announcement is likely by Monday. With the formal round of talks to take place over the next two days, several Sasikala loyalists have started distancing themselves from her.

OneIndia News