The political landscape of Karnataka continues to be rife with speculation regarding a potential change in leadership, even as key figures offer contrasting viewpoints on the matter. Amidst these swirling rumors, a statement from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, has added another layer to the ongoing discourse.
Yathindra Siddaramaiah, a Congress Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), asserted on Monday, December 8, 2025, that his father, Siddaramaiah, would remain the Chief Minister for the full five-year term. He stated that the Congress high command has conveyed that there would be no leadership change at this time. "I have been saying this, which is not new. I feel that, as of now, there is nothing like leadership change. I hope that he (Siddaramaiah) will complete his five-year term," Yathindra told reporters. He further clarified that the high command often calls the Chief Minister to Delhi for discussions on various issues, including the prevailing situation in the state.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself addressed the issue, reiterating that he would abide by the decision of the Congress high command regarding any leadership change. "Will abide by whatever the high command decides," he told reporters when questioned about his son's statement. This stance aligns with his repeated statements over the past few days, emphasizing that both he and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar would adhere to the high command's decision.
Adding to the complexity, Yathindra acknowledged the existing confusion surrounding the leadership issue. He pointed out that D. K. Shivakumar had been asked whether he aspired to be Chief Minister, a common occurrence among aspirants in all political parties. However, he maintained that the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) elects a candidate for a definite period and ultimately decides who should be the Chief Minister.
D.K. Shivakumar has also expressed his views on the matter. While not directly commenting on the recent statements, he has previously voiced his support for Siddaramaiah completing his full term. In August 2024, Shivakumar stated, "Siddaramaiah will complete five years as CM, and Congress will govern the state for the next 10 years. There is no question of the CM resigning. He will continue as CM and work in the interests of the state and country". Sources suggest Shivakumar said "Let good things happen".
The backdrop to these statements is the speculation surrounding a potential change in Chief Minister, particularly as the Congress government reached the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, 2025. This speculation has been further fueled by reports of a "power-sharing" agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar in 2023. Some interpret this agreement as a mid-term leadership transition, while others believe Siddaramaiah will remain in office for the entire term.
G Parameshwara, a senior Congress leader and Karnataka Home Minister, stated in October 2025 that Siddaramaiah would remain CM for the full five years. Amid the speculations, Siddaramaiah has asserted multiple times that he will complete the full term if the high command wills it.
As of now, the Congress high command's decision remains the determining factor. Yathindra claimed that the high command had postponed a decision on the leadership change after a recent meeting. With Chief Minister Siddaramaiah scheduled to visit Delhi in January, further discussions with the high command are anticipated, potentially bringing more clarity to the situation. Until then, the speculation and political maneuvering are likely to continue, keeping Karnataka's political future uncertain.
