Senior journalist from the Sakshi media group, R. Dhanunjay Reddy, who had been the advisor to former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, is all set to be the new editor of Sakshi Telugu daily, sources said.
Dhanunjay Reddy will replace the current editor, Vardhelli Murali, who was reportedly asked to step down soon after the assembly election results on June 4.
According to sources, Jagan has asked Dhanunjay to rejoin Sakshi and oversee the editorial responsibilities, which did not meet expectations during the recent elections.
Sources revealed that Dhanunjay Reddy initially showed little interest in returning to journalism, as he aspired to become a full-time party leader and hoped for a political position such as an MLC or a Rajya Sabha nomination.
However, with the YSRCP winning only 11 assembly seats, which are insufficient to secure even a single MLC seat, let alone a Rajya Sabha seat, Dhanunjay Reddy's political ambitions have been put on hold.
As a result, Jagan instructed Dhanunjay Reddy to manage Sakshi daily for the next five years and work on improving the party's image. If he meets Jagan’s expectations, he might be rewarded with a position in the party or government.
"Consequently, he has no other option but to accept the offer. He may take over as Sakshi editor effective from July 1," sources said.
Sources also mentioned that Dhanunjay Reddy amassed considerable wealth during his tenure in the Jagan government as an advisor for grama sachivalayams.
Therefore, returning to journalism is seen as a demotion for him. He is reportedly more interested in pursuing business activities while maintaining his association with the party.
Furthermore, many within Sakshi are reportedly unhappy about working under Dhanunjay Reddy, who lacks significant credentials as a journalist.
"It is certain that Sakshi will witness further decline if Dhanunjay Reddy becomes the editor. It would be better if he continues as a politician," an insider commented.