At a recent All India Congress Committee (AICC) event in Delhi focusing on power-sharing and constitutional challenges, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar lauded Sonia Gandhi's "sacrifice". He highlighted her decision in 2004 to forgo the Prime Minister's post, calling it an unparalleled act of political selflessness.

Shivakumar, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the significance of power-sharing in politics. He praised the Gandhi family's contribution to the Indian National Congress. Specifically, he referred to the moment when Sonia Gandhi was asked by the President to take the oath as Prime Minister. According to Shivakumar, she declined, stating that power was not her priority. Instead, she believed that a Sikh, a minority, and an economist could best serve the country, leading to Manmohan Singh's appointment as Prime Minister.

He contrasted Sonia Gandhi's actions with the current political climate, remarking on the reluctance of many to share power, even at the local Panchayat level. He stated that while some MLAs and ministers share power, others do not agree to share power. Shivakumar's comments come amid speculation of a power tussle between him and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Shivakumar has a long association with the Congress party and has been instrumental in bringing the party to power in Karnataka. He has often expressed his admiration for the Gandhi family, emphasizing their role in keeping the party united. In the past, he has stated that Sonia and Rahul Gandhi have sacrificed the position of Prime Minister. He also noted Sonia Gandhi's role in bringing the Congress back to power in 2004 during a difficult period for the party. Shivakumar has also acknowledged the support of Keralites residing in Karnataka, who voted for the Congress in the last assembly elections and thanked the people of Wayanad for electing Rahul Gandhi.

Sonia Gandhi's decision in 2004 to step aside and allow Manmohan Singh to become Prime Minister has been widely debated and analyzed. Some view it as a genuine act of sacrifice, while others suggest different underlying political calculations. Regardless, it remains a significant moment in Indian political history.

In 2019, Sonia Gandhi visited DK Shivakumar in Tihar Jail, extending her support. Shivakumar had been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case.