Not sure of full term for HDK, says Param; govt’s future depends on Cong stance, warns HDK

Bengaluru, May 25: Congress and JD(S) are yet to arrive at an agreement on whether or not Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy will get a full term of five years. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy says that the future of his government hinges on the stances taken, and the moves made by the Congress leaders.

On the other hand, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara says that the modalities including sharing of ministries and portfolios among the two parties and whether the JD(S) should get full five years or should we also get a term are yet to be discussed and worked out.

Initially, the Congress with its 78 legislators announced “full and unconditional” support to Kumaraswamy becoming chief minister. It is likely that the Congress would seek a power-sharing arrangement, in which it will also get the chance to have its own chief minister.

Speaking to media persons in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy asserted that he would not compromise for the sake of power. The chief minister said he agreed to lead the coalition for the development of the state and on the insistence of the Congress leaders, and not out of hunger for power.

Noting that he was aware of his challenges as the chief minister, Kumaraswamy said he would give a good government, overcoming all difficulties.

The chief minister said he had his own plans for providing permanent irrigation to districts like Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Chikkaballapur, Kolar, Bengaluru Rural and Bengaluru Urban.

When asked about allowing Kumaraswamy to remain in power for five years Parameshwara said that they have to discuss the pros and cons. “But the main priority for us is to provide good administration without us fighting among ourselves,” he said.

Earlier this week, both camps agreed that the Congress would get 22 Cabinet berths (including deputy chief minister), while the JD(S) will get 12 (including chief minister). “Immediately after the floor test, we will go to the high command to discuss the Cabinet expansion.”

His role will be beyond that of Kumaraswamy’s deputy, he said. “I’m not just simply a deputy chief minister. I’m also representing the Congress. So, my responsibility obviously will be much bigger,” he said. He also clarified that there was no quota under which he was chosen for the post. “It’s an accident or coincidence that I’m born a Dalit. I’d like to believe that I’m eligible and that’s why I was chose.