TDP denies MP ticket to Kesineni Nani

In a significant development, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) high command has decided not to field two-time Vijayawada MP Kesineni Srinivas (Nani) as a candidate in the upcoming 2024 general elections. Nani, who was one of the three MPs who emerged victorious against YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s wave in 2019, received the news as a blow to his political career.
Taking to Facebook, Kesineni Nani disclosed that Chandrababu Naidu personally conveyed the message that the party would nominate someone else for the Vijayawada MP seat.
According to Nani, Naidu advised him to skip the Tiruvuru public meeting scheduled for January 7, where Naidu himself would be present.
Furthermore, Nani was instructed to refrain from active participation in the party’s programmes, leading to his removal from the role as the in-charge of the Tiruvur meeting, with the responsibility now entrusted to another party member.
The decision follows a recent altercation between followers of Kesineni Nani and Kesineni Chinni. This development is perceived as a setback for Kesineni Nani and his supporters in the Vijayawada Parliament seat, potentially posing challenges for the TDP and Chandrababu Naidu in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Addressing the media at Kesineni Bhavan on Friday, Nani stated, “I have been asked not to interfere in the party affairs in NTR district, and I will abide by his directions.” While asserting that he remains the Lok Sabha member from Vijayawada until May 2024, Nani expressed confidence in securing a hat-trick victory in the forthcoming elections.
“I am certain that I will go to Delhi. If I miss one flight, there is always another flight. If I don’t get a seat on any flight, I will have to hire a chartered flight,” he remarked, indicating his readiness to contest even as an independent candidate. Nani emphasised that his political future would be determined by the people of Vijayawada, expressing faith in their support.
Denying any betrayal of Chandrababu Naidu, Nani stated, “I never wanted to leave Chandrababu Naidu; it’s he who is keeping me at bay.” He clarified that avoiding political conflicts was his nature, but it shouldn’t be mistaken for weakness, citing instances where he chose to stay away from certain events to ensure peace.