Row over flex banners of Kodali ‘contender’ in YSRC

The appearance of flex banners endorsing Mandala Hanumantha Rao, the YSRCP Krishna district vice president, as a candidate for the MLA elections in the Gudivada constituency, has sparked controversy. Erected at significant junctions in Gudivada town, these banners have taken former minister Kodali Sri Venkateswara Rao (Nani) and his supporters by surprise.
Mandala Hanumantha Rao boasts a close association with the family of former Chief Minister Dr YS Rajasekhar Reddy. The proliferation of posters across Gudivada town has ignited discussions among YSRCP supporters, turning it into a focal point of political discourse.
Kodali Nani, the incumbent MLA, has secured victory in the Gudivada segment in the past four consecutive Assembly elections. Initially contesting from Gudivada in 2004 under the TDP banner, he later transitioned to the YSRCP, winning elections in 2014 and 2019.
Despite YSRCP president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy releasing seven lists of contesting candidates, Kodali Nani’s name was conspicuously absent. This has led to anticipation among YSRCP members and Nani’s supporters for an official announcement regarding his candidacy for the Gudivada segment.
Gudivada has historically been a stronghold for the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) since its establishment in 1983. Notably, TDP candidates have emerged victorious six times, including prominent leaders like party founder and former Chief Minister Dr. NTR. In contrast, Congress and YSRCP candidates have secured victory once and twice, respectively.
Meanwhile, prominently displayed posters in key areas of Gudivada town have triggered discussions among party leaders and members alike. These flex banners suggest the imminent announcement of Mandala Hanumantha Rao as the YSRCP candidate for Gudivada, accompanied by congratulatory messages from his supporters. Interestingly, the flexes also feature photographs of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, late former CM Dr YS Rajasekhar Reddy, and former MLA late Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga Rao.