AIADMK MP and former Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M. Thambi Durai said on Friday that he hopes party general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami will return as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Speaking to journalists outside Palaniswami's residence, Thambi Durai cited visible public support during the election campaign as a sign of the party's revival.

Thambi Durai stopped short of confirming any alliance with the DMK, stating that the decision rests solely with Palaniswami. His remarks follow similar comments by former Health Minister S. Semmalai, who on Thursday asserted that Palaniswami would be the 'king and not the kingmaker' in any political arrangement.

When asked about Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader K.A. Sengottaiyan attempting to attract newly elected AIADMK legislators, Thambi Durai dismissed it as speculation, insisting that party lawmakers remain loyal to Palaniswami's leadership. He emphasized that the legislators are bound by the general secretary's directives.

The statements from two senior figures signal internal confidence within AIADMK about regaining power, even as post-poll negotiations remain fluid. Palaniswami has not yet commented on alliance possibilities or government formation in Tamil Nadu.

The AIADMK is expected to hold a high-level meeting in the coming days to finalize its stance on alliances and legislative strategy. The Tamil Nadu Governor will invite the leader with majority support to form the government after the assembly convenes.