Karnataka: Congress-JD(S) coalition wins trust vote, Kumaraswamy to remain CM
The Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka sailed through a trust vote today, putting a government firmly in place after 10 days of political drama. BJP MLAs walked out right before the proceedings, but the coalition secured 117 votes. So JD(S)' HD Kumaraswamy and Congress' G Parameshwara will remain the CM and deputy CM respectively. Before that, Congress leader Ramesh Kumar was unanimously elected as Speaker.
Two-day CM Yeddyurappa to be leader of the opposition
After the vote, Kumaraswamy said the new government will start work "today evening itself," beginning with a meeting with everyone in the government. "It's my duty to implement the assurances and hopes spelt out by (BS) Yeddyurappa during his speech during the previous confidence motion." Meanwhile, two-day CM Yeddyurappa was recognized as leader of opposition, while Govind Karjol will be the deputy opposition leader.
'Let's see how long you last': Yeddyurappa leads BJP-MLAs out
Today saw dramatic moments too, as Yeddyurappa threw one googly at Kumaraswamy after another. While leading BJP MLAs out, he dared the CM, "Let's see how long you last." He also threatened to launch statewide protests if the new government doesn't waive farm loans within 24 hours. He had a warning for Congress: 'JD(S) has betrayed BJP before, it might betray you too.'
'Will start working today evening itself': New government takes charge
Kumaraswamy chose to respond equally, reading out a past statement by Yeddyurappa where he said loan waivers can only be a poll promise, not reality. "(Yeddyurappa) has given wrong information and used impolite words in the House," he said. "His speech was perhaps a rehearsal for some drama company," Kumaraswamy added. "I am confident that this alliance government will stay in power for the next five years."
'Speaker's post is apolitical': BJP withdraws party candidate's nomination
What's left now?
Though the coalition-partners earlier said they will assign Congress 22 positions and JD(S) 12, portfolios haven't been decided yet. "Discussions on...who will be the ministers will be held during the weekend as leaders (are) free after the trust vote," a JD(S) member said. A coordination committee will be set up within a couple of days to ensure smooth functioning of the government.
The new government has its plates full
There are challenges in store. Congress and JD(S) announced their alliance during counting of votes on May 15, as BJP shot past them to emerge the single largest party. Its stability will largely depend on how efficiently demands of various sections of both partners are satisfied. Moreover, Congress still hasn't announced whether it will support Kumaraswamy for a full five-year term or not.
