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K Annamalai quits BJP, launches ‘We The Leader’ movement promoting Kalam-inspired ethics and nationalism.
Annamalai said he would contest polls in the future. (ANI file photo)
After formally resigning from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), K Annamalai unveiled a new political movement inspired by what he calls the “Kalam School of Ideology”, indicating his future plans.
The movement, named ‘We The Leader’, will function under the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Ethics and Politics, a training and research institution that the former Tamil Nadu BJP chief plans to establish in Coimbatore. More significantly, it places former President APJ Abdul Kalam at the centre of Annamalai’s political vision.
Kalam At The Core Of Annamalai’s Vision
Kalam’s appeal lies in his unique ability to transcend political, religious and social divides. Also known as the “Missile Man of India”, the ex-President remains one of the few public figures admired across ideological lines. For Annamalai, Kalam represents a blend of qualities he has long supported— nationalism, scientific thinking, integrity, development and social harmony.
The choice is also politically significant in Tamil Nadu. Kalam was both a proud Tamilian and a committed nationalist, a combination that closely reflects Annamalai’s own efforts to argue that regional identity and national pride can coexist. By invoking Kalam, Annamalai seeks to present an alternative political framework that moves beyond the traditional ideological battles between the Dravidian parties that have shaped Tamil Nadu politics for decades.
Movement Targets Dynasty Politics
In his address, Annamalai said the movement would oppose dynasty politics, personality cults and social divisions while promoting scientific temper, good governance, nationalism, development and Tamil pride, the principles he associates with Kalam’s legacy.
By choosing Kalam as his guiding light, Annamalai is attempting to build a political identity rooted in ethics, merit and inclusive nationalism, while positioning himself outside the state’s established political camps. He also indicated that the movement could eventually evolve into a political party and contest elections in 2031.
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Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com’s general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish…Read More
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