TDP's Narsipatnam MLA C Ayyannapatrudu was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the 16th Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Saturday, marking a significant moment in the Assembly's proceedings.
In his address to the Assembly, Pro-tem Speaker and TDP's Rajahmundry Rural MLA G Butchaiah Chowdary highlighted that Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan, TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh, and BJP's Staya Kumar Yadava had proposed C Ayyannapatrudu for the esteemed position of Speaker.
"As Ayyannapatrudu was the sole nominee for the Speaker's post, I hereby declare his election as Speaker unanimous. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ayyannapatrudu and invite him to assume the Speaker's responsibilities," declared the Pro-tem Speaker.
Ayyannapatrudu's election was a mere formality as no other MLA filed a nomination to contest against him.
According to PPK Ramacharyulu, the secretary general of the Legislative Assembly, only three nominations were received for the Speaker's post on Friday, all of which were in favour of Ayyannapatrudu.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and other dignitaries escorted Ayyannapatrudu to the Speaker's chair, symbolizing the formal transition of responsibilities.
Following his assumption of office, Ayyannapatrudu invited Chief Minister Naidu to address the Assembly.
In his inaugural address to the 16th Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Naidu expressed his congratulations and admiration for Ayyannapatrudu, acknowledging him as one of the most senior legislators in the Telugu states.
"It is a matter of great pleasure to see a respected leader from the BC community like you, Ayyannapatrudu, in the prestigious role of Speaker. I wholeheartedly congratulate you on your unanimous election as Speaker," remarked Chief Minister Naidu.
Noting the presence of several first-time legislators in the Assembly, Naidu further elaborated on the illustrious background of Ayyannapatrudu, who at 67 years old brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
The second day of the inaugural session of the 16th Legislative Assembly commenced promptly at 10.30 am.
Three MLAs who had not taken their oath of office on Friday completed their formalities today. With their swearing-in completed, all 175 MLAs representing the southern state took their oath of office.
Meanwhile, YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy did not attend the Assembly session as he had scheduled visits to Kadapa district for the day.
According to a statement from the opposition party, the former chief minister planned to spend the next three days in Pulivendula, Kadapa district.
