Ex-CM is leader of JD(S) legislature party

Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy was today chosen leader of the JDS legislature party (JDSLP) in Karnataka where the BJP-led coalition is set to assume office tomorrow.

The announcement was made after the JDSLP meeting here, which was attended by party chief HD Deve Gowda.

Asked who would become the deputy chief minister, Kumaraswamy told reporters that he, Deve Gowda, JDS state unit president Merajuddin Patel and senior party leader MP Prakash would hold discussions, and a decision would be announced by the evening.

Kumaraswamy said the meeting also decided that ministers belonging to the JDS "" 18 in all, including deputy chief minister "" would take oath at one go.

The JD-S stand means that tomorrow, only chief minister-designate B S Yeddyurappa of the BJP will be sworn in.

Kumaraswamy said nominees from JD(S) for ministerial berths are expected to be finalised in two-three days.

JD(S) sources said the party MLAs at the meeting pushed for Kumaraswamy's candidature for the post of deputy chief minister.