Lokesh’s “padayatra” walkathon in the Chandragiri Assembly constituency has caused a stir among the TDP cadre, as his fans were seen carrying red flags with his image on them. This was a departure from the usual yellow TDP flags with the images of NTR and Chandrababu Naidu that are seen during TDP programmes. TDP senior leaders have noted that Lokesh is trying to position himself as a capable leader to counter YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and is following the advice of TDP political strategist Robin Sharma.
However, some TDP leaders are concerned about Lokesh’s attempts to project himself as an iconic leader, sidelining his father Chandrababu Naidu, who is in old age. They suggest that Lokesh should first confirm whether the people are ready to accept him as a leader before he can lead the TDP, which has a host of senior leaders. Some senior TDP leaders also feel that Lokesh is focusing too much on himself instead of the party, as he is highlighting “I” instead of “We”.
Despite the concerns, some senior leaders believe that Lokesh is working hard to prove himself as a popular and charismatic leader and hope that he will succeed. However, they note that as long as Naidu leads the TDP, all leaders, cadre, and people will support him. Some TDP leaders also disagree with the strategies of Robin Sharma, who worked with Prashant Kishor.
