New Delhi

As Karnataka prepares for the swearing-in of its new government on Wednesday, Congress MLA Ajay Singh expressed confidence that he would secure a place in the new cabinet, while indicating that the party leadership is likely to strike a balance between experienced leaders and fresh faces.

Speaking in Delhi, where senior Congress leaders from Karnataka have gathered for consultations with the party high command, Singh said he remains hopeful about being inducted into the ministry.

"I am a strong contender and I believe I will be included in the cabinet this time. The new team is expected to include both seasoned politicians and younger leaders. Fresh talent will certainly find representation," he said.

The Congress leadership is currently holding a series of meetings to finalise the composition of the new government. Discussions are underway regarding ministerial allocations and the appointment of deputy chief ministers, with outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Chief Minister-designate D.K. Shivakumar participating in the deliberations.

Shivakumar is scheduled to take oath as Karnataka's Chief Minister at a ceremony at Lok Bhavan on June 3 at 4 pm.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah met several party legislators and leaders over breakfast at a restaurant in New Delhi. Among those present were senior Congress leaders Satish Jarkiholi and M.C. Sudhakar. The gathering provided an opportunity for legislators to interact with the outgoing chief minister ahead of the formation of the new administration.

Political circles are abuzz with speculation that several ministers from the outgoing cabinet may not find a place in the new government as the party looks to accommodate new leaders. Adding to the discussions, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of the outgoing chief minister, expressed confidence about his prospects, claiming that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had earlier assured him of a cabinet berth.

Senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, D. K. Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah, K. C. Venugopal, Priyank Kharge, Satish Jarkiholi and M.C. Sudhakar have assembled at Kharge's residence in the national capital to finalise the contours of the new cabinet.

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The final list of ministers is expected to be announced shortly before the swearing-in ceremony.