Basavaraj Bommai initiates Ministry formation

Bengaluru, Jul 27 (UNI) Chief Minister designate of Karnataka Basavaraj Bommai said on Tuesday that he would initiate various programs, including formation of new council of ministers during the coming week.
“I am getting in touch with all the leaders on the phone. By morning, I will complete the job of contacting them. After the swearing-in ceremony, I will take up whatever programs (including forming new council of minister) are there in the coming week,” Chief Minister designate Basavaraj Bommai told reporters when he was asked about formation of the new ministry after he was chosen as the successor to Yediyurappa at the BJP Legislature Party Meeting.
The council of ministers led by caretaker chief minister BS Yediyurappa was dissolved by Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot immediately after the Lingayat strongman tendered his resignation on Monday.
Replying to a query regarding Yediyuurappa’s son Vijayendra’s alleged interference in administrative matters, Bommai said he will have freedom to run the administration and would seek guidance of senior party leaders.
“Everything is transparent. Therefore, in this context I would not like to comment on this issue. My administration will be authentic,” he said.
“This is the BJP government. I will have all the freedom. I will give pro-people administration. From time to time, I will take guidance from senior party leaders,” he added.
Asked if he was in the race for the coveted post, Bommai said he does not believe in race, but decisions. “I don’t believe in race, but believe in decisions. The party seniors decided and legislators proposed, and I have received our leader Yediyurappa’s blessings,” he said.
He added that he is the first among equals.