Rebel YSRCP MP hints at floating new party

Rebel YSR Congress Party MP Kothapalli Geetha has hinted that she might form a new political outfit in the run-up to the general election and assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh in 2019.

"I am not going with any of the regional parties in Andhra Pradesh because of corruption associated with these parties and ideological differences," Geetha told PTI.

"I may come up with my own party or align with a national party. In August, I will announce my decision and resign from the YSRCP," she said.

Geetha earlier said she had severed ties with the Jaganmohan Reddy-led YSRCP after she was allegedly subjected to harassment by party leaders.

The first-time MP, who won from Araku, a reserved parliamentary constituency, in the 2014 Lok Sabha election on a YSRCP ticket, also said she would give up the reserved seat.

"I will contest from a non-reserved constituency in 2019 to make way for others who deserve it. I have the ability to win...," she said.

Asked about the agenda of her new party, she said, "If it is formed, my focus will be on sustainable livelihood, liquor ban, priority to women, welfare of vulnerable class, education and housing for all and health amenities in rural areas."
Refusing to comment on the possibility of her joining a national party, she said, "A regional party is obliged to have good ties with any party that's there at the Centre."