The political landscape of Karnataka is once again buzzing with speculation about a potential power shift, fueled by recent statements from Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. While Shivakumar has acknowledged an "agreement" exists between him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, brokered by the Congress high command, he remains tight-lipped about the specifics, particularly concerning any "private agreement" regarding a change in leadership.
This renewed buzz comes as the state government recently crossed the halfway mark of its five-year term, stirring up previous rumors of a "two-and-a-half-year" power-sharing arrangement. These rumors have persisted since Siddaramaiah assumed the Chief Minister's office in May 2023, with unconfirmed reports suggesting Shivakumar would take over after the initial 30 months.
On December 19, 2025, Shivakumar confirmed the existence of a power-sharing pact with Siddaramaiah, emphasizing that the Congress high command had set the agreement. He clarified that both leaders would adhere to the arrangement. Speaking to reporters in Karwar, Shivakumar explained that the understanding was reached under the guidance of the party leadership. However, he dismissed any possibility of a change of guard in the government, stating that such discussions were limited to media speculation and not taking place within the party.
Adding to the intrigue, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has refuted claims of any mid-term power-sharing agreement. This directly contradicts Shivakumar's assertion of a "secret" deal, reportedly known to a select few Congress leaders. Siddaramaiah affirmed that he would remain in office for the full five-year term, expressing confidence in the Congress high command's support. He stated that he had never mentioned serving as Chief Minister for only two-and-a-half years.
Amidst the speculation, Shivakumar has maintained that he has never disputed that the high command is in Siddaramaiah's favor, nor has he suggested that Siddaramaiah would not complete his term. He stated that Siddaramaiah is the CM as per the high command's decision.
AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the ongoing power tussle, clarifying that any confusion over the leadership issue exists only at the local level and not within the high command. He cautioned party leaders against claiming individual credit for electoral success, emphasizing that the Congress party's strength lies in the collective efforts of its workers.
Despite the contrasting statements, both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have expressed their commitment to abiding by the Congress high command's decision. Recent displays of bonhomie between the two leaders, including breakfast meetings, suggest an effort to project unity.
On December 24, 2025, Shivakumar dismissed speculation about a leadership change, asserting that it existed only in the media. He clarified that his recent visit to Delhi was purely administrative and not political, aimed at addressing state-related issues with Union Ministers. He stated that he would not be meeting with the Congress high command and is happy to continue as Deputy Chief Minister.
The coming weeks will likely be crucial in determining the future leadership dynamics in Karnataka. While Shivakumar's recent statements have reignited the power-shift buzz, the exact nature of any agreement with Siddaramaiah remains shrouded in secrecy.
