Mandya: Mandya MLA Ravikumar Ganiga, who is close to Chief Minister-elect DK Shivakumar, on Sunday stated that capable first-time MLAs should also be considered for ministerial positions in the new government. He specifically named Ashok Rai, Shivaganga Basavaraju, Bharath Reddy, and Pradeep Eshwar as deserving candidates who should be given opportunities in the Shivakumar cabinet. Ganiga clarified that he was not seeking a ministerial berth for himself despite being a first-time MLA.
Support for Leadership Transition
Speaking to reporters, the first-time MLA recalled that Shivakumar stood by him during difficult times and expressed happiness over the smooth leadership transition in the party. He emphasized the importance of unity and collective progress under the new leadership.
Advocacy for Mandya District
Ganiga strongly advocated for greater representation for Mandya district in the new cabinet. He said Nagamangala MLA N Cheluvarayaswamy performed exceptionally well in the Siddaramaiah government and deserved continuation. He also highlighted the credentials of Srirangapatna MLA Ramesh Bandisiddegowda, a three-time legislator from a family with a strong political legacy. Ganiga urged the party leadership to allocate two ministerial berths to Mandya district, arguing that enhanced representation would accelerate developmental works and strengthen the district’s voice in the government.
The MLA's remarks come amid speculations about the cabinet formation under DK Shivakumar, who is set to take oath as Chief Minister. Ganiga's call for inclusion of first-time MLAs and district representation reflects broader discussions within the party on balancing experience and fresh talent.
