Bengaluru: Pradesh Congress Committee president, Dr G. Parameshwar, on Friday dropped hints that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's choice of candidates for two vacant cabinets berths would be considered during discussions with top leaders of Congress in New Delhi on Saturday and Sunday.
He told the media here: "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah already promised at a public meeting that newly elected MLA from Gundlupet, Geetha Mahadev Prasad will be appointed a cabinet minister. So, I feel that Mr Siddaramaiah will ensure her entry into the cabinet.
For the other vacancy, the CM may have already made his choice, so a candidate of his choice will make it to cabinet. It is his prerogative to select his team, he will have more say in this matter."
In response to a question, he said he will lead the party to power in 2018 as well. However, the decision to allow him to continue as the PCC chief would be taken by central leaders. "I am ready for the challenge to lead the party to power in 2018," he added.
Answering another question, Dr Parameshwar said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and he would leave for Delhi to discuss about nominating three members to the Legislative Council.
"Three seats are vacant.On many occasions, there are many slips between the cup and the lip. Hence, I think this time these names will be finalised. There is less scope for any major surprises," he added.
Meanwhile, veteran Congress leader, M. V. Rajashekharan, again raised the bogey of "Dalit CM" post 2018 Assembly polls.
The octogenarian, has been airing this demand for last three years in support of Dr Parameshwar, reiterated while speaking at the birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar: "Mr Siddaramaiah must strive to ensure the dream of Babasaheb Ambedkar is realized. Dr Ambedkar had envisioned that a Dalit should become the CM and Prime Minister in this country. Now this is opportune time for Mr Siddaramaiah to realise the dream of Dr Ambedkar."
