Amidst rising speculation and internal strife within the Karnataka Congress, All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge has asserted that he, along with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, will mediate to resolve the ongoing issues. This statement comes as the Congress government in Karnataka reaches the halfway mark of its five-year term, stirring discussions about a potential change in leadership.

Kharge's declaration follows a period of intense political activity, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah having met with the AICC President on November 22nd. Speculation arose regarding a meeting between Kharge and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, though it did not materialize. Sources close to Shivakumar indicated that he and his brother, D.K. Suresh, had already conveyed their concerns to Kharge during a meeting in Delhi the previous week.

The Congress leadership in Karnataka has faced increasing pressure, fueled by speculation of a change in Chief Minister and a potential cabinet reshuffle. Many legislators have reportedly been attempting to meet with central leaders, adding to the sense of urgency. Kharge's public statement that the "high command" would ultimately make the decision has been interpreted as an indication that the Gandhi family will play a crucial role in resolving the matter.

The opposition parties in Karnataka, the BJP and JD(S), have questioned Kharge's authority as Congress president, after he stated that the party's "high command" would decide on the issue of the Karnataka Chief Minister. The BJP inquired whether Kharge had forgotten that he is the AICC president, while the JD(S) labeled him a 'rubber-stamp' president.

Adding to the complexity, reports have circulated about a potential power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, with Shivakumar potentially taking over as Chief Minister after two and a half years. However, the existence of such an agreement has not been officially confirmed by the party. Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the Congress Legislature Party was not informed about any power-sharing pact when Siddaramaiah was elected Chief Minister.

Kharge's recent statement emphasizing his and the Gandhi's involvement suggests a direct intervention to address the power dynamics and ensure stability within the Karnataka Congress. With Rahul Gandhi currently traveling, the extent and timing of the mediation remain uncertain. The coming days are expected to be crucial as the Congress high command seeks to navigate the internal pressures and chart a clear path forward for the party in Karnataka.