"Aspirations are to deliver good governance": AS Ponnanna on Karnataka cabinet expansion
Bengaluru, May 31
Ahead of the highly anticipated decision on the expansion of the state cabinet, legal advisor of former Karnataka Chief Minister, AS Ponnanna, on Sunday stated that his primary objective remains ensuring good governance and fulfilling the pre-poll promises made by the Congress party to the people of the state.
Speaking to ANI regarding potential administrative and cabinet changes, Ponnanna emphasised that the ultimate decision-making authority rests solely with the party's central leadership in New Delhi.
"My aspirations are to deliver good governance and deliver what we have promised to the people, implement the policies of the government," Ponnanna said.
When asked about upcoming political developments and potential administrative reshuffles within the state unit, the senior legislator maintained strict party discipline.
"All decisions will be taken by the Congress high command," he added.
Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said that the number of ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers (DCMs) in the new Karnataka cabinet is yet to be finalised ahead of the swearing-in of party leader DK Shivakumar on June 3.
Shivakumar has been elected as the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader in Karnataka.
Kharge's remarks come a day after Shivakumar formally submitted a letter to Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot informing him about his unanimous election as CLP leader. This came after the voluntary resignation of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on May 28. The Governor dissolved the previous Council of Ministers immediately, but asked Siddaramaiah to continue until the new government is sworn in.
Shivakumar said the party remains committed to serving the people of Karnataka with dedication, integrity, and purpose. Known as the party's "troubleshooter", he has earned recognition for grassroots work, crisis management, and close association with the Congress central leadership.
The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for June 3 at 4:05 pm at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru, with the new government expected to focus on inclusive development and strengthening the party organisation ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I like that Ponnanna is sticking to party discipline and not making wild claims. The Congress high command has a tough job balancing all the factions—Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar, and others. Hope they pick ministers who actually work, not just those with political clout.
DK Shivakumar as CM? Interesting move. The man has earned his reputation as a troubleshooter, but can he handle the administrative load? Let's see if the "Karnataka model" actually means something beyond just promises. I'm cautiously optimistic.
Good to see the Congress leadership taking time with cabinet expansion. Better to get it right than rush and have internal fights later. The real test will be whether they can improve Bengaluru's infrastructure and create jobs for our youth. Actions speak louder than words, ji.
I'm a Congress supporter, but I hope this isn't the same old story where high command makes all decisions without listening to local leaders. Karnataka needs fresh ideas, not just Delhi diktats. Ponnanna's statement sounds respectful, but I want substance, not just discipline.
I appreciate the focus on "inclusive development." Karnataka has been bleeding jobs and investment under the previous government. Let's see if Shivakumar's grassroots experience translates into real change for regular people like us. 🙏
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