If the reports coming from the Telugu Desam Party are to be believed, party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu is likely to expand his cabinet on January 8, after doing a brief exercise.
Naidu has already hinted at a cabinet reshuffle by announcing that Jana Sena General Secretary Nagababu will soon be inducted into the cabinet. However, he is said to be contemplating making certain changes in the present cabinet. Hence the delay.
According to sources, along with Nagababu, another senior leader is also expected to secure a cabinet berth. However, to accommodate them, two existing ministers are likely to be removed. It is reported he is also planning two or three additional changes.
The cabinet formed after the last elections and the formation of the government saw some surprising decisions, with several juniors, including first-time MLAs, being given ministerial positions over senior leaders.
Although this caused dissatisfaction among senior leaders, Chandrababu Naidu stood firm on his decision for change.
Despite repeated requests from him for ministers to improve their performance and strengthen their grip on their respective departments, some ministers have reportedly failed to meet expectations.
At present, there is only one vacant ministerial position in the Andhra Pradesh cabinet. Chandrababu has already decided to offer this position to Nagababu. Additionally, TDP State President Palla Srinivas is also likely to be appointed as a minister.
At the same time, it is reported that two existing ministers, who have failed to meet expectations, might face removal. The names being mentioned are Vasamshetty Subhash and Kondapalli Srinivas.
Both are young ministers. Despite repeated warnings, there has reportedly been no improvement, making their removal likely, sources added.
