Political tensions have intensified in East Godavari district ahead of the local body elections, with the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) facing an unexpected setback in Kovvur. Within hours of the party leadership finalising its candidate for the municipal chairperson post, Manne Padma reportedly announced that she would not contest the election, leaving party leaders surprised.
On Thursday night, October 15, the party confirmed Padma’s candidature for the Kovvur Municipal Chairperson post. The following morning, former minister Venugopala Krishna and former MLAs Jakkampudi Raja and Tallari Venkata Rao reportedly visited her residence to hand over the party’s B-form and discuss the nomination.
The meeting took place at the residence of former MLC Kodali Sivarama Krishna, who previously served as Kovvur municipal chairman five times. However, the senior leaders were reportedly taken aback when Padma made it clear that she was unwilling to enter the electoral fray.
Despite efforts by the leaders to persuade her to reconsider, Padma reportedly remained firm in her decision. Sources indicate that the leaders subsequently conveyed the development to the party leadership in Tadepalli.
Padma’s reported withdrawal has raised concerns among other YSRCP candidates preparing to contest ward-level elections. Her association with the politically influential Kodali family had reportedly strengthened the party’s expectations, making her decision particularly unexpected.
With the candidate considered final reportedly stepping aside, uncertainty has emerged within the Kovvur YSRCP unit over who will replace her and how the party will proceed with its election strategy.
The development comes at a crucial time for the party as it prepares for the local body polls.