CHENNAI: BJP state president K. Annamalai’s announcement to take a “short break” from active politics has stirred mixed emotions among party workers. Known for his voracious reading and interest in residential certificate courses, the IPS officer-turned-politician is set to fly to the United Kingdom to pursue a political course at the University of Oxford. Annamalai’s decision comes in the wake of a significant electoral defeat under his leadership in the state.
The prestigious four-month (17 weeks) residential program in International Politics begins in September, keeping Annamalai away from local politics until the end of the year. This timing has elicited diverse reactions within the BJP ranks.
Some party members welcome Annamalai’s decision to take a sabbatical, seeing it as an opportunity for personal growth and development. However, veteran party members express frustration, believing he is abandoning the party at a critical juncture. A senior BJP leader and core committee member suggested that Annamalai sensed potential trouble and decided to leave. This speculation coincides with the extension of JP Nadda’s tenure as national president and the exploration of leadership options for Tamil Nadu.
Another state-level functionary criticized Annamalai’s decision, arguing that in a challenging political landscape like Tamil Nadu, the BJP requires aggressive leadership to counter the ruling DMK and its allies. Annamalai’s proactive and somewhat aggressive stance had kept the party in the limelight. The functionary, speaking anonymously, emphasized that a politician should remain grounded and suggested that Annamalai’s absence could disrupt the BJP’s political momentum.
Further criticism came from a senior leader in Southern Tamil Nadu, who accused Annamalai of trying to escape under the guise of pursuing a certificate course that neither benefits him nor the party. This leader warned that such decisions might tarnish Annamalai’s image.
Despite the internal dissent, BJP senior leader Ra Arjuna Murthy dismissed concerns about the party’s stability. He assured that the state general secretary (organization) would manage party affairs seamlessly during Annamalai’s absence, leaving no room for speculation about the appointment of an acting president or changes in the state president post.
As the BJP navigates this period of uncertainty, the reactions to Annamalai’s decision reflect the complexities and challenges of political leadership in a dynamic and competitive environment.
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