Former Karnataka Minister Santosh Lad expressed optimism on Thursday about being included in the state Cabinet in the forthcoming expansion.

He also stated that the Congress party in Karnataka is focused on regaining power in 2028.

Commenting on recent political changes within the state unit, Lad welcomed the appointment of BK Hariprasad as the new Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief, believing the leadership shift will strengthen the party.

Speaking to reporters, Lad said, “I am hopeful (to be inducted in the Cabinet in the next list). It is very good for us that BK Hariprasad has become the KPCC chief. With the combination of everyone, we look forward to forming a greater government and coming back to power in 2028.”

He extended best wishes to the newly sworn-in Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara, praising Hariprasad’s appointment. “DK Shivakumar and G Parameshwara have sworn in as the CM and DCM. I wish them all the best… I am going to meet BK Hariprasad, too. He is a stalwart of Karnataka… That is why the Party considered him as the KPCC President,” he added.

Lad's comments come amid ongoing speculation over a potential Cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka.

On Wednesday, DK Shivakumar took office as the 34th Chief Minister of Karnataka. His swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru marked the start of his tenure following former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Senior leader G Parameshwara was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister alongside Shivakumar. Twelve other legislators were inducted into the Council of Ministers, signalling the formation of a new Cabinet tasked with governing the state.

The newly inducted ministers are KH Muniyappa, KJ George, MB Patil, Ramalinga Reddy, Satish Jarkiholi, Krishna Byre Gowda, Priyank Kharge, UT Khader, Eshwara Khandre, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Byrathi Suresh, and Sharan Prakash Patil.