YSRCP eyes Vijay's poll strategist Kapil Sahu ahead of 2029 battle

The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), led by former Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, is reportedly considering the inclusion of political strategist Kapil Sahu in its campaign team for the 2029 general elections. According to insiders, the party has initiated preliminary talks with Sahu, known for his work with Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay and his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). These discussions are part of broader efforts to enhance the YSRCP's electoral strategy ahead of the upcoming polls. Sahu previously served as a key figure in the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), which he left in 2024 along with a 12-member team. His tenure at I-PAC saw him collaborate closely with founder-director Prashant Kishor, contributing significantly to the success of TVK's recent state assembly election campaign. This experience positioned Sahu as a respected name in political strategy circles, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where his team focused on digital outreach, campaign messaging, and voter engagement strategies. A senior YSRCP official, who declined to be named, confirmed that Jagan had begun initial conversations with Sahu and other potential strategists. While no formal decision has been made, the official noted that Jagan found Sahu's preliminary proposals impressive. The party is currently evaluating multiple options to bolster its campaign infrastructure and ensure a more robust approach for future elections. Jagan's relationship with I-PAC has evolved over time. Initially, Kishor played a pivotal role in shaping the YSRCP's 2019 campaign, which resulted in a historic win for the party. However, following Kishor's departure, the party transitioned to Rishiraj Singh, who managed the 2024 elections. Under Singh's guidance, I-PAC continued to support the YSRCP, though the results fell short of expectations. Despite this, the party maintained ties with I-PAC for some time before terminating the collaboration. The YSRCP's current focus appears to be on rebuilding its strategic capabilities and ensuring a stronger presence in the political landscape. Analysts suggest that Jagan's need for a clear direction and vision to counter the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government makes the recruitment of a seasoned strategist like Sahu a logical step. Political commentator Ramu Suravajjula emphasized that having a reliable advisor could provide Jagan with the necessary guidance to avoid contradictory statements and maintain a consistent political narrative. While the exact terms of Sahu's potential involvement remain undisclosed, the move signals a shift towards a more structured and professional approach in the YSRCP's campaign planning. As the party prepares for the 2029 elections, the integration of experienced figures such as Sahu could play a crucial role in shaping its future trajectory. The outcome of these developments will likely influence the political dynamics in Andhra Pradesh and beyond.