Following the recent electoral verdict in Andhra Pradesh, many observers are attributing the overwhelming victory of YCP in the municipal elections three years ago to the influence of the ruling party at that time. This influence is seen as the primary reason why YCP, which had won nearly all municipalities except Tadipatri, suffered a drastic reduction to just 11 seats in the recent assembly elections.
In response, TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu appears to have initiated a strategic political maneuver, aiming to wrest control of key municipality seats from YCP. The latest developments in Kuppam municipality underscore this shift in dynamics.
It's reported that Kuppam Municipal Chairman Dr. Sudhakar, formerly aligned with YCP, is en route to Amaravati to meet Chandrababu Naidu. Alongside him, nine other councilors from Kuppam municipality are expected to resign from YCP and join TDP. This move signals a significant loss of control for YCP over Kuppam, previously a stronghold for the party.
Previously, TDP had support in 6 out of 25 wards in Kuppam. With Chairman Sudhakar and the additional councilors switching sides, TDP's influence could extend to as many as 16 wards, significantly bolstering their position in the municipality.
Historically, YCP utilized their control over Kuppam Municipality to promote their "Why not Kuppam?" campaign slogan. However, Chandrababu Naidu's recent electoral success in both securing the Kuppam assembly seat and gaining control of the Kuppam municipality from YCP marks a notable shift in local political dynamics.