TDP sources are admitting that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has been facing pressures from within the family to induct his son and party’s national general secretary into his cabinet. Though he had openly indicated about such move more than a year ago, stating that it would be done at an `appropriate time’, but somehow he seems to be hesitant now due to various `compulsions’.
Lokesh, who is not seen actively participating in party affairs since last one and half month, is said to be unhappy over unusual delay in his coronation. He was not seen in Janmabhumi programmes and also he was absent at the recent party’s coordination committee meeting at his father’s place.
At the time when demonetisation turned out to be big challenge to the party and also the government, seemingly he was out of the country.
TDP circles are stating that Chandrababu Naidu has finally decided to reshuffle his cabinet, paving way for Lokesh to join. However exact time of coronation remains unknown. It is likely to be done either during Sankranthi or in the first week of February, before the winter session of the state assembly.
Apparently, the ministries to be assigned to him are already decided. Based on the speculations it would be Information Technology and Municipal Administration departments, which are being handled by Telangana Chief Minister Chandrasekhar Rao’s son K T Rama Rao, in the neighbouring state.
Besides Lokesh, as many as 10 leaders are insisting for cabinet berths. They include four leaders among 21 MLAs defected from YSRCP, including Muslim leaders. As not one Muslim candidate won from TDP in the elections, two Muslim MLAs joined from YSRCP and are now aspiring for cabinet berth.
After his cabinet formation on June 8, 2014 with 20 members, including the Chief Minister and two BJP ministers, no changes were made until now. There are three vacancies. TDP circles are suspecting that at least four ministers are likely to be dropped. This allows Chandrababu Naidu to accommodate around 7 or 8 new faces.
