Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is reportedly considering a cabinet reshuffle as his government completes two years in office and prepares for a politically challenging period ahead.
According to party sources, Naidu had initially planned to reshuffle the cabinet in December, after the local body elections expected to be held in October.
Ministers were likely to be given key responsibilities during the elections before any changes were made. However, discussions within the government have now shifted towards the possibility of an earlier reshuffle.
Recent political developments and performance assessments are said to have accelerated talks on changes in the cabinet. Sources indicated that greater clarity could emerge within the next two or three days.
“In all probability, the cabinet reshuffle may take place after August 15, during the auspicious Shravana Maasam. Naidu has already begun consultations with senior party colleagues after reviewing the performance reports of his ministers,” sources said.
Political circles are closely watching the fate of around five incumbent ministers whose performance, coordination with the party organisation and implementation of the Chief Minister’s agenda are reportedly under scrutiny.
At the same time, leaders from all three coalition partners—the TDP, Jana Sena Party and BJP—have begun lobbying for cabinet berths.
Sources said the BJP may be given one additional ministerial position in the reshuffle. The Jana Sena Party is also expected to induct another representative into the cabinet, possibly by replacing an existing minister from its quota. Jana Sena leader Nagababu is widely seen as a possible entrant.
Within the TDP, speculation is rife that as many as three ministers could be dropped to make way for new faces.
The proposed changes are expected to ensure regional and social balance, with several senior party leaders reportedly in contention for cabinet posts.
