Karnataka Deputy Speaker Rudrappa Manappa Lamani expressed hope on Monday of obtaining a ministerial position in the forthcoming cabinet expansion.

He stated that Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader DK Shivakumar assured him he would communicate his aspirations to the party high command.

Speaking to ANI, Lamani said, “DK Shivakumar has been elected as the CLP leader. We also personally met Shivakumar yesterday. He said, ‘I will try to make you a minister after talking to everyone and will convey your message to the high command.'”

Regarding his ministerial ambitions, Lamani noted that Siddaramaiah and CLP leader DK Shivakumar had travelled to Delhi to consult with senior Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.

He added, “Today, our CM and our CLP leader Siddaramaiah, both have gone to Delhi. In Delhi, they will talk to Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. They will ask everyone and then think about it. What is good and who should be given, there are many senior people in Congress.”

Lamani further stated that the party high command would make the final decision on ministerial appointments.

He explained, “If seniority is considered, then everyone will have to be given. Whom to make what, how to do it, our high command takes the decision. And we abide by that decision.”

Offering praise for Siddaramaiah, Lamani said the former Chief Minister fulfilled his promises and stepped down following party leadership directions.

He said, “Siddaramaiah has done what he said. He said he would give five guarantees, and he gave them. Siddaramaiah gave his resignation and accepted the high command. He also came to the CLP meeting and explained to everyone what the position is, what the condition of Karnataka is. That’s why Siddaramaiah is a big man.”