Kamal Haasan’s MNM exits Tamil Nadu poll race, backs DMK alliance

In a major political shift ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, actor-politician Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) has opted out of the electoral fray, choosing instead to extend unconditional support to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance.

The decision comes amid disagreements over seat-sharing arrangements, even as the DMK finalized its electoral pact with alliance partners. Haasan made it clear that the number of seats offered to MNM, along with the proposal to contest under the DMK’s ‘Rising Sun’ symbol, was unacceptable to both him and his party cadre.

“In the current political climate, the terms offered do not align with our expectations or principles,” Haasan said, announcing that MNM would stay away from directly contesting the polls.

Declaring the party’s stand, he added that MNM would “not contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections” and would instead back DMK alliance candidates across constituencies.

Framing the move as a collective and principled decision, Haasan credited party workers for their commitment, calling them “a shining example of selfless politics” and said the call was taken in respect of their sentiments and trust.

He also struck a confident note about the DMK’s prospects, expressing hope that he would soon congratulate Chief Minister M. K. Stalin at his swearing-in ceremony.

Responding to the development, Stalin revealed that Haasan personally met him at Anna Arivalayam to convey MNM’s decision. Describing the interaction as one between “friends as well as political leaders,” Stalin said Haasan termed the move a “duty,” though he viewed it as a significant sacrifice.

“I am deeply moved by his decision,” Stalin said, thanking Haasan and MNM members while expressing hope that the actor-politician would campaign across the state. He added that the proposed “Dravidian Model 2.0” government would benefit from Haasan’s support.

Calling it a moment of political largesse, Stalin said history would recognize Haasan’s choice to “set aside self-interest for the welfare of Tamil Nadu.”

Meanwhile, the DMK-led alliance has sealed its seat-sharing formula. The Indian National Congress will contest 28 seats, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) 8, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) 10, while the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Communist Party of India Marxist (CPM) have been allotted 5 seats each.

Other allies include Vaiko’s Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) with 4 seats, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) with 2 seats each, and the Kongunadu Makkal Desia Katchi (KMDK), also allocated 2 seats.

Tamil Nadu is scheduled to vote on April 23, with counting set for May 4.