Chennai: “We believe that our leader and Rajinikanth share good friendship and mutual respect for each other. There was a good chance of the two parties joining hands as both the leaders had the same intension of providing alternative and clean politics. But one cannot criticise his decision as it concerned his health condition,” the leader said.

Rajinikanth, who has a large following in the State, could still help achieve political change by backing MNM, he added. “If he still wanted to a political change in the State, it could be achieved by backing Kamal Haasan,” he said.

Also read : Rajinikanth's decision saddens me, says Kamal Haasan

In a tweet, cinematographer and director SD Vijay Milton hailed Rajinikanth’s decision and added that he would support whatever decision he took. “But one request. If you really want a change, you should extend your support to [MNM],” he tweeted.

Read more: Kamal Haasan hints at seeking support from Rajinikanth

Responding to him, the party wrote in its official Twitter handle: “Thank you for your trust in Maiam and the change we are undertaking. Maiam will always stand by the faith and honestly of scores of good persons like you.”