TD Likely to Rope in Poll Strategist Prashant Kishor for 2024 Elections

VIJAYAWADA: Indian election strategist Prashant Kishor, in an important development, met Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu at the latter’s residence at Undavalli. The two were closeted for three hours. They were involved in extensive discussions, including Prashant Kishor working for TD in the 2024 elections.

Earlier Prashant Kishor and TD general secretary Nara Lokesh spotted together at the Gannavaram Airport. They both travelled to Undavalli residence to discuss the political strategies for the upcoming elections.

Along with Prashant Kishor, team members of Robin Sharma, whose Show Time Consultancy strategizes for TD, also met with Chandrababu.

TD leaders are on cloud nine with another PK joining the TD camp. Shantanu Gupta, who played a pivotal role in Narendra Modi becoming the Prime Minister in 2014 elections, has already been advising the opposition Telugu Desam Party in the latter’s bid to return to power.

Incidentally, Prashant Kishor had played a major role in the victory of YSRC in the 2019 elections, giving the party a landslide victory with 151 seats.

Sources said that during the long three hours’ meeting, Prashant Kishor gave an in-depth analysis of Jagan's government to Naidu. He explained the strengths and weaknesses of the government in various spheres. In particular, he pointed out that youth are deeply dissatisfied and distressed with the policies of YSRC government.

Prashant Kishor reportedly stated that unemployment, rise in price of essentials, electricity bills and taxes are likely to have a major impact on the upcoming elections. Attacks against Dalits and BCs have alienated these communities from YSRC.

It is reported that PK said except for one or two cabinet ministers, the performance of rest is zero. There is a feeling among people that the government is acting arrogantly. Opposition should thus have a strategy to exploit this discontent.

Replying to questions by media persons at Gannavaram airport after meeting Chandrababu, Prashant Kishor said the former chief minister is a senior leader of the country. He has come to meet him. “There is no need for any speculation on this,” he remarked before emplaning.