Speculation is rife in Karnataka that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar might replace Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister. Congress MLA Basavaraju V Shivaganga claimed on Sunday that Shivakumar will serve as the chief minister starting this December and continue for the next 7.5 years. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily also stated that no one can stop Karnataka's Deputy CM DK Shivakumar from becoming the state's CM. Statements like these from Congress leaders have fueled rumors of a leadership change in Karnataka.
MLA Basavaraju V Shivaganga stated, 'Mark my words, it will happen by December. I can even write it in blood if you want me to that he (Shivakumar) will become the CM by December. If he takes charge in December, he'll administrate, including the next five-year term, amounting to a 7.5-year tenure.' Shivaganga mentioned Shivakumar's remarkable role in enhancing Congress's performance in both assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
Don’t Mistake Shivakumar’s Restraint for Weakness
Congress MLA Shivaganga remarked, 'He (Shivakumar) has made history. He's organized the party, invested his resources, and made immense sacrifices. His silence or patience should not be misunderstood as weakness. The high command knows everything, and I am hundred percent sure he will be CM by December.' Within Karnataka's political circles and especially in the ruling Congress, discussions are ongoing about a possible leadership change later this year.
Veerappa Moily said, 'I was the one who ensured that Shivakumar contested for the first ticket as an MLA. Today, he has emerged as a successful leader in Karnataka. Let's all wish for him to become chief minister soon.' Addressing a Congress event in Karkala, he emphasized Shivakumar’s tireless efforts nationally during challenging times for the party and his contributions to securing power in other states as well despite being the KPCC President.
Nothing Can Stop Shivakumar from Becoming CM
Lauding Shivakumar’s leadership and organizational skills, former Union Minister Veerappa Moily, pointing to Karnataka’s Deputy CM on stage, stated, 'No one can stop you from becoming chief minister. There is nothing to worry about. If anyone criticizes, they can do it for their satisfaction but Shivakumar’s rise to CM is unstoppable. This position is not a gift from anyone; you have earned it yourself.'
Karnataka Congress President DK Shivakumar has openly expressed his ambition for the chief minister's position. After Congress's victory in the May 2023 assembly elections, Siddaramaiah took the CM post, while Shivakumar accepted the deputy CM role with the high command's assurance. Sources indicate that Congress's top leadership agreed to split the CM tenure between the two senior leaders of Karnataka for 2.5 years each. December will mark the completion of Siddaramaiah's 2.5-year term as chief minister.
Siddaramaiah to Complete 5-Year Tenure: Rajanna
Currently, Congress MLAs supporting Shivakumar are rallying for his elevation to chief minister, while those backing Siddaramaiah claim he will complete his five-year term. MLA Basavaraju V Shivaganga requested the high command to stop Minister KN Rajanna from publicly criticizing Shivakumar, stating, 'He is causing embarrassment for the party and the government. I urge the high command to take action against Rajanna.' Meanwhile, from Siddaramaiah's camp, Rajanna claims that the current CM will complete the full five-year tenure.
