Bengaluru: Amidst intensifying speculation surrounding a potential change in Karnataka's Chief Ministerial position, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has reiterated his unwavering commitment to abide by the Congress high command's decision. "I've waited and will wait…," Shivakumar stated, emphasizing that he would adhere to whatever the party leadership decides.
The political corridors in Karnataka have been abuzz with rumors of a possible leadership change, particularly with the Congress government having completed half of its tenure. Speculation stems from a purported "power-sharing agreement" made in 2023 between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, suggesting that Shivakumar would assume office after two and a half years.
Shivakumar's recent statements come against the backdrop of these swirling rumors and increased activity among party leaders. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that the party's central leaders will discuss the future leadership, with Rahul Gandhi and other key figures also present in the meeting.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shivakumar's cryptic social media posts emphasizing the importance of keeping one's word have been interpreted as subtle reminders to the party high command regarding the alleged power-sharing agreement. In response, Siddaramaiah has asserted his intention to complete his full five-year term, citing the mandate given by the people. However, he has also maintained that he would accept the Congress high command's decision.
In an effort to present a united front, Siddaramaiah invited Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting. Following the meeting, both leaders addressed the media, reaffirming their commitment to the party's decision and dismissing rumors of discord. "We have decided that we will follow whatever the high command says," Siddaramaiah stated. Shivakumar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their loyalty to the party and their determination to strengthen it. "As far as the leadership issue is concerned, it is for the party high command to decide. Whatever they say, we will follow," Shivakumar affirmed.
Both leaders highlighted their discussion of strategies for the 2028 Assembly polls, underscoring their shared focus on the party's future prospects in Karnataka. Shivakumar also mentioned his plans to visit Delhi to address issues concerning Karnataka's farmers ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament, which begins on December 1. He intends to meet with Karnataka MPs to discuss pending irrigation projects and seek justice in the Mekedatu balancing reservoir case.
Amidst the ongoing speculation, Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of the Chief Minister, has downplayed the rumors of a leadership change, attributing them to media confusion and asserting that the high command has issued no such instructions. He also stated that no one knows if any 2023 power-sharing promise existed and noted that DK Shivakumar has affirmed he will follow the high command.
Meanwhile, former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai has suggested that the opposition BJP may consider moving a no-confidence motion in the Assembly if the power tussle within the Congress continues. He also hinted at the possibility of a "dark horse" emerging in the race for the CM post.
As the political drama unfolds, all eyes are now on the Congress high command, which is expected to hold a crucial Strategy Group meeting on November 30 to discuss the Karnataka leadership issue. Senior party leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, are expected to participate in the meeting, where a final decision on the state's leadership is anticipated.
