Sasikala takes over as General Secretary of AIADMK

Chennai: Sasikala Natarajan formally took over as the AIADMK general secretary at the party headquarters on December 31, and vowed to lead the party on the path laid by Jayalalithaa.

Breaking down often during her address to party cadre, Sasikala said she never thought she would have to take over the post held by Jayalalithaa. Her death had left a void that cannot be filled, Sasikala said, adding that fate had snatched her just as she was recovering well in hospital and was scheduled to leave for home.

Sasikala recalled that she lived as Jayalalithaa's shadow for over 33 years, and had never stayed away from her for more than a few days in all these years. Sasikala said she had the good fortune to look after Amma and to take care of her every need. She also recalled accompanying Jayalalithaa during her election tours and visits to other States and for political rallies.

Sasikala said she would strive to keep the party united, and grow as per Jayalalithaa's wishes, and look after the welfare of the party cadre and the people of Tamil Nadu.

She garlanded the statue of late chief minister MGR at the entrance of the party headquarters.

Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, his cabinet colleagues, party functionaries, MPs and MLAs were among those who attended the meeting.