Lokesh sworn in as TDP working president
Andhra Pradesh IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh was on Wednesday sworn in as the national working president of the Telugu Desam Party, along with 252 members of the party’s national and State committees.
The oath was administered by TDP national president and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at a party function. Union Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu was among the three leaders appointed as national general secretaries.
The newly constituted Politburo has 29 members, while the national committee comprises 31 members and the State committee 185.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Naidu said the TDP had remained resilient despite political setbacks since its formation in 1982. He noted that several parties across India had faded after electoral defeats, but the TDP had endured because of its disciplined cadre and commitment to public expectations.
“Whether in victory or defeat, the TDP flag has always flown high,” he said, attributing the party’s longevity to the dedication of its leaders and workers.
Mr. Naidu said the new committees were formed after extensive consultations and careful deliberations. He added that women had been given significant representation and assured that more opportunities would follow. He also said the TDP had consistently supported the Women’s Reservation Bill.
Praising Mr. Lokesh, 43, Mr. Naidu said he had strengthened the organisation through cadre training programmes and structural reforms. He credited him with helping attract global companies such as ArcelorMittal and Google to Andhra Pradesh.
He also said Mr. Lokesh’s Yuvagalam padayatra played a key role in mobilising public support during the party’s years in the opposition and contributed to its victory in the 2024 Assembly elections.
Targeting the YSR Congress Party, Mr. Naidu urged party members to counter what he described as misinformation and highlight the achievements of the coalition government.
Referring to friction within the TDP-Jana Sena Party-Bharatiya Janata Party alliance, he cautioned leaders against disputes over minor issues such as banners, photographs, and seating arrangements.
Mr. Naidu said party workers committed to long-term service would be recognised and urged the organisation to improve on its 2024 electoral performance to prevent a comeback by the opposition.