Kharge Says Decision on Karnataka Ministers, Deputy CMs Still Pending Ahead Of DK Shivakumar Oath
With DK Shivakumar set to assume office as Karnataka's next Chief Minister on June 3, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that key decisions regarding the composition of the new government are still being worked out.
Speaking ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, Kharge said the party leadership has not yet finalized the number of ministers or deputy chief ministers who will be part of the incoming administration. According to him, consultations on the cabinet structure are continuing and a final formula is expected to emerge in the coming days.
The Congress chief also hinted that the cabinet expansion may not be completed in a single phase. While a core group of ministers could be inducted alongside the Chief Minister during the initial ceremony, additional appointments may be announced later as the party balances regional, social and political considerations.
Another major decision awaiting the party concerns the leadership of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee. With Shivakumar preparing to move into the Chief Minister's office, Congress leaders have begun discussions on selecting a new state unit chief to oversee organisational affairs.
Kharge stressed that the party is looking for a leader capable of strengthening the Congress structure at the grassroots level, improving coordination among party workers and preparing the organisation for future electoral challenges.
The developments follow Shivakumar's formal communication to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot regarding his unanimous selection as the Congress Legislative Party leader after Siddaramaiah stepped down from the top post.
The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on June 3, where Shivakumar will officially take charge of the state government. The Congress leadership is expected to use the transition as an opportunity to reshape both the administration and the party organisation as it prepares for upcoming political contests.
