Cong-JD(S) prove naysayers wrong for now. Kumaraswamy passes floor test

The Congress-Janata Dal (Secular) alliance sailed through the trust vote in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly Friday, with all their members rallying behind Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy. The absence of any challenge whatsoever was rendered absolute with the the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) choosing to walk out.

Not that the BJP had a choice. The Speaker's election earlier in the day had clearly indicated which way the trust vote would go. The saffron party's candidate, Suresh Kumar, surprised everyone by withdrawing from the race.

“On the directions of our party, I had filed the nomination for the post of Speaker of Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Now, after discussion in the party, it is felt that the Speaker has to be elected unanimously following the parliamentary traditions. I'm withdrawing my nomination,” he reportedly announced.

His withdrawal was a clear sign of things to come – the alliance was safe and would survive the floor test without any trouble. Ramesh Kumar was soon elected Speaker. Next, BJP legislature party leader BS Yeddyurappa recognised as the leader of the Opposition and Govind Karjol as his deputy.

CM Kumaraswamy, Deputy CM G Parameshwara, Yeddyurappa and Congress legislature party leader Siddaramaiah made customary speeches following Kumar's election.