Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai has indicated that his newly-launched movement, 'We the Leaders', could be transformed into a full-fledged political party by July, marking the next phase of his political journey after exiting the BJP.
Speaking during a social media interaction, Annamalai said the organisation is moving in the right direction and has witnessed strong public participation since its launch.
Membership drive gathers pace
According to Annamalai, nearly 18 lakh people have already joined the movement "without any expectations." He said support has been growing both through online registrations and direct engagement with people on the ground.
Also Read | Census factor may push early Assembly polls in BJP-ruled states
The former BJP leader said many members have joined believing the platform can bring meaningful change to Tamil Nadu politics.
"After we start this movement as a political outfit, its activities will take on a different nature from this July and people are going to see it," he said, per a report by The Times of India.
He added that the organisation's immediate focus remains expanding its reach across the state.
"Our aim in the coming months is that this membership drive will keep going", he said and added, "As we move forward, our objective is to transform our organisation into a people's movement to talk about the various issues in the state".
கடந்த 24 மணி நேரத்தில் 13 லட்சம் உறுப்பினர்கள் இணைந்து, https://t.co/gSstBA1IYJ இயக்கத்திற்கு நீங்கள் அளித்துள்ள பேராதரவு, பெரும் நெகிழ்ச்சியையும், அதைவிட பெரிய பொறுப்பையும் எனக்கு அளித்திருக்கிறது.
— K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) June 6, 2026
இந்த இயக்கத்தின் மீது நம்பிக்கை வைத்து இணைந்துள்ள ஒவ்வொருவருக்கும், எனது… pic.twitter.com/nzB5URPZHV
Focus on governance and public issues
Annamalai said the movement intends to raise issues affecting ordinary people, including concerns over the growing drug menace among youngsters in Tamil Nadu. He indicated that such matters would be taken up through grassroots-level campaigns.
He also spoke about the challenges faced by professionals interested in entering politics.
"Between 40 and 50 years of age, Tamil people, who have achieved a lot, across the globe including in US and London do not know how to enter politics here," he said.
Also Read | What is Operation Tiger? Sena-UBT rebellion rumours explained
Promise of fresh leadership
Highlighting what he described as a different political approach, Annamalai said the organisation would promote leadership renewal once it becomes a political party.
"Discarding the very old and bringing in new, it must keep happening", he said.
He also reiterated the movement's inclusive stance, saying it "will not fail, will not lie, and will not lead the people to the wrong path", while adding that "for us, we are equal to all religions and there is no second thought about that".
The movement has drawn attention since Annamalai stepped away from all BJP responsibilities following the party's disappointing performance in the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
FAQs:
When does Annamalai plan to launch his political party?
He indicated that 'We the Leaders' could become a political party by July.
What is Annamalai's key political proposal?
He has proposed term limits and greater opportunities for new leaders to enter politics.
