Congress searches for YSR’s successor

The Congress has named Finance Minister K Rosaiah as the interim chief minister. But struggle for succession seems imminent

Hardnews Bureau 

The sudden death of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy has shocked the state. The Congress has named state Finance Minister K Rosaiah as the interim chief minister as he is the senior most party leader in the cabinet. Meanwhile, struggle for succession seems imminent.

 In such circumstances, a new CM has to be named at the earliest. Therefore, the state cabinet would meet on Thursday to finalise succession plans. Many names have surfaced from the state leadership. But sources told Hardnews that YSR's successor could be his son Jaganmohan Reddy. A strong lobby of party leaders in Andhra are promoting his name. But the final decision will be taken by the Congress high command. 

The Congress leadership would certainly prefer a sharp mind like YSR that helped greatly in mobilising resources for the party. 

Rosaiah, known for his integrity and long experience, could have been a logical successor to YSR as CM. But he wasn't the number two in the YSR government. The real number 2 is Sabitha Reddy whom YSR called little sister and considered her a lucky mascot for the party. She is the home minister and had joined politics after her politician husband's demise.

 The other name that also has been doing the rounds is that of KVP Ramachandra Rao, a close friend of YSR for more than 30 years. He was also his public advisor. He was later sent to Rajya Sabha while he still continued to work closely with the CM in the state administration. YSR made all decision in consultation with Rao. So, he could be a contender for the post. 

Jaipal Reddy is also being seen as one of the strong contenders. Sources told Hardnews that the central leadership would prefer him. But his age can be obstacle as it doesn't fit in the Congress' young leadership plan. Purandeswari, daughter of former chief minister NT Rama Rao, is also a strong contender. She is young and close to Rahul Gandhi, too. 

The succession debate would gain momentum shortly after his cremation. According to sources, there is no way the Congress can replace a leader like YSR. Hence, his successor needs to be chosen carefully. That is also important to ensure that the party doesn't end up in disarray. Factionalism is another factor that will be in the minds of the Congress high command.