Opinion: Sasikala's Big Challenges Include Caste And Her Family 'Mafia'

Hugo Gorringe, D Karthikeyan | Monday February 06, 2017

Bereft of their leader and inspiration, the ruling party in Tamil Nadu have turned to the next best thing: Amma's friend and confidante, VK Sasikala, who is the closest like-for-like replacement available. Even Sasikala's nickname of "Chinnamma" implies continuity, and suggests that Amma's politics live on in her successor. True to this perception, Sasikala has promis...

Opinion: Stalin Finally Gets That Big Promotion. Won't Be Easy

Hugo Gorringe, D Karthikeyan | Thursday January 05, 2017

Stalin's leadership bid has not been well-served by his father, who hesitated to place him in charge ahead of state election in 2016. Irrespective of the intention, this was read as a vote of no-confidence at the time. For all his experience and political nous, therefore, Stalin will have to persuade voters that he is a worthy successor. At present, he is seen to lack...

Opinion: In Backing Sasikala For Bigger Role, What Her Party's Overlooking

Hugo Gorringe, D Karthikeyan | Tuesday January 03, 2017

The true test for the AIADMK, thus, will come in the next two elections. Whether Panneerselvam remains Chief Minister or Sasikala replaces him, neitheris experienced inoverseeing a campaign and neither has been the star-attraction. If the party can harness a sympathy wave to win the next election, then the leader will be able to establish a reputation for themselves a...

Opinion: Yes, Sasikala Has A Big Role Now - But It Could Really Backfire

Hugo Gorringe | Tuesday December 13, 2016

Given that Sasikala has never held public office and has no popular mandate, it is highly unlikely that she could assume the position of Chief Minister. During her tumultuous friendship with Jayalalithaa over the past 30 years, however, she has often been portrayed as the power behind the throne.