If speculations from the power corridors of Andhra Pradesh are to be believed, Telugu Desam Party president and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is likely to undertake a major cabinet reshuffle soon, potentially dropping at least six to eight ministers.
According to party sources, Naidu is reportedly dissatisfied with the performance of several ministers after completing 13 months in office.
He has repeatedly expressed concern during cabinet meetings and warned underperforming ministers that their positions are at risk if they fail to show improvement.
With little change in their performance, Naidu is now seriously considering a cabinet overhaul, sources say.
He has reportedly chosen an auspicious time during the Sravanam month — most likely between August 8 and 15 — for the reshuffle.
Beyond the issue of non-performance, Naidu is also factoring in changing political equations and the demands of coalition partners.
Six to eight ministers are expected to be dropped, and a reshuffle of portfolios is also on the cards, insiders add.
Jana Sena Party chief and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is said to be lobbying for another cabinet berth — if not for his brother Nagababu, then for another prominent leader from North Andhra.
Speculation is rife that current Jana Sena minister Durgesh may be dropped, with Konathala Ramakrishna and Nagababu being considered as potential replacements.
Meanwhile, the BJP is also seeking a second cabinet berth.
Reports suggest the upcoming reshuffle will aim to strengthen the alliance by giving more importance to coalition partners and increasing the representation of senior leaders.
According to TDP sources, current Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly K Raghu Ramakrishna Raju may be inducted as a cabinet minister, while Guntur East MLA Gorantla Buchaiah Chowdary is likely to replace him as Deputy Speaker.
It is also speculated that three ministers from North Andhra could be dropped, with Palla Srinivas Rao and Kala Venkat Rao among those likely to be inducted. Another minister, Vasamsetty Subhash, is also rumored to be on the exit list.
From Nellore district, changes are expected, with Prashanthi Reddy and Venkataraju being considered for cabinet elevation.
In Rayalaseema, one minister may be replaced by Nallari Kishore Kumar Reddy, while another from Krishna district may also be shown the door.
Naidu is reportedly displeased with how some ministers handled recent controversies during Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy’s district tours.
The reshuffle is also expected to ensure better social and regional balance and could be accompanied by significant internal party restructuring.
