Amidst persistent rumors of a change in leadership in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has firmly dismissed any speculation that he will be stepping down from his post. In a sharp response to the ongoing buzz, Siddaramaiah asserted that he intends to complete his full five-year term and lead the Congress party into the 2028 elections.

Siddaramaiah's firm stance comes in the wake of repeated reports suggesting a possible power-sharing agreement between him and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who was widely considered a strong contender for the Chief Minister's position following the Congress victory in the 2023 Karnataka assembly elections. The rumors gained traction, particularly with the upcoming milestone of the government completing two and a half years in office, a period often associated with potential leadership transitions.

In response to the swirling speculation, Siddaramaiah has made it clear that there is "no vacancy" for the Chief Minister's post. He has reiterated this stance on multiple occasions, emphasizing that he is very much in office and intends to remain so. He has also stated that D.K. Shivakumar himself has acknowledged that the Chief Minister's seat is not currently vacant.

Adding further clarity to the situation, Siddaramaiah pointed out that the Congress high command has not initiated any discussions regarding a change in leadership. He referred to statements made by AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, who is in charge of Karnataka, explicitly stating that there are no leadership changes on the horizon. Siddaramaiah emphasized that any decision made by the party's central leadership would be final and binding, and both he and D.K. Shivakumar would adhere to it.

D.K. Shivakumar has also publicly denied any plans for a cabinet reshuffle or change in leadership. He dismissed the reports as "media speculation" and affirmed that there is no such plan in place.

Siddaramaiah addressed questions about a potential power-sharing arrangement, stating that such issues naturally arise when a government approaches the two-and-a-half-year mark. However, he clarified that the existence of such an agreement should not be assumed. He stated that if such an agreement existed, he would not have recently declared his intention to serve as Chief Minister for the full five-year term.

Siddaramaiah also stated that he sought an appointment to meet with Rahul Gandhi. Furthermore, he has underlined his political future, stating that he will lead the Congress in the 2028 polls and that there is no anti-incumbency in Karnataka.