Is Jagan Looking for Another PK?

Prashant Kishor and his ‘IPAC’ team played a crucial role in YS Jagan’s landslide victory in the 2019 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections. Their election strategy, campaign planning and voter outreach were widely seen as key factors behind YSRCP’s massive win. However, PK stayed away from Jagan during the 2024 elections, where the party suffered a heavy defeat.

Now, political circles are abuzz with speculation that Jagan may be looking for another strategist to prepare the party for the next electoral battle.

According to reports, the YSRCP chief recently held two confidential meetings with political strategists at his Bengaluru residence. Though there is no official confirmation, the discussions are believed to have focused on rebuilding the party and preparing a fresh roadmap for the next Assembly elections.

One of the key topics was the party’s election manifesto. While Jagan’s “Navaratnalu” helped YSRCP win in 2019, the government later faced criticism for not giving enough importance to development. This time, the focus is reportedly on combining welfare with development to present a more balanced agenda.

The second topic was Jagan’s proposed “padayatra”. The YSRCP chief is expected to undertake another statewide yatra before the elections, reportedly covering around 5,000 kilometres. The strategy discussions are said to include the route, schedule and the communities the party plans to reach during the campaign.

Candidate selection was also reportedly discussed. Ahead of the 2024 elections, YSRCP made large scale changes by replacing and shifting several sitting MLAs and ministers. The move did not produce the desired results. Sources say Jagan is now seeking expert advice to avoid repeating those mistakes in the next election.