AIMIM fields 21 candidates in Andhra Pradesh civic polls, eyes key posts

AIMIM has fielded 21 candidates in Andhra Pradesh's civic polls, targeting leadership positions in Kadapa and Hindupur. The party has deployed legislators and senior leaders to strengthen its campaign and expand its political presence beyond traditional strongholds before Assembly elections

Hyderabad: The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has stepped up its efforts to expand its political footprint in Andhra Pradesh, fielding 21 candidates across six municipalities and setting its sights on key civic positions, including the Mayor’s post in Kadapa and the municipal chairperson’s post in Hindupur.

The party had initially filed nominations for 31 candidates, of whom 21 remain in the fray. Its decision to contest the civic polls with an eye on leadership positions has drawn attention in political circles, as it seeks to strengthen its presence beyond its traditional strongholds.

---

In Hindupur, the MIM has fielded candidates in four wards, while it is contesting six wards in Adoni. It has also fielded candidates in ward No. 9 in Penukonda, ward No. 3 in Rayadurg and ward No. 44 in Nandyal. In Vijayawada, the party is contesting three seats. In Kadapa, it is focusing on the Mayor’s post.

The party’s preparations have involved efforts to strengthen its organisational network in Kadapa, Vijayawada, Nandyal, Anantapur and Hindupur. The focus on these areas follows its earlier electoral experience in Kadiri, where it lost the Assembly seat by a narrow margin.

To intensify the campaign, the MIM has deployed six sitting MLAs, MLCs, senior leaders and prominent faces from Maharashtra. Leaders have been assigned specific constituencies and wards to coordinate campaigning and reach voters.

Nampally MLA Majid Hussain campaigned in Anantapur, Penukonda and Hindupur on October 21 before visiting Vijayawada the following day. Charminar MLA Jaffer Hussain Meraj took charge of campaigning in Nandyal, Penukonda and Hindupur, while Bahadurpura MLA Mohd. Mubeen was deployed in Kadapa to campaign for the party’s mayoral candidate. Malakpet MLA Ahmed Bin Abdullah Balala was assigned to Adoni.

The party has also campaigned in places such as Madanapalle, where it is not contesting, in an effort to improve its visibility and build its organisational base for future elections.

The municipal polls are expected to serve as a test of the MIM’s ability to extend its influence in Andhra Pradesh. While its immediate objective is to secure representation in local bodies, the results could also shape its plans for the next Assembly elections in the State.