Siddaramaiah asserts Karnataka CM position decisively, DK Shivakumar signals acceptance with no other paths to explore
by Utsav RoyKarnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah delivered a firm message on Wednesday to those within the Congress party who are supporting Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar as the next chief minister. Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah asserted with confidence that he intends to serve as Karnataka’s chief minister for a full five-year term, dismissing any doubts about his leadership.
“I will be Karnataka’s CM for five years. Why should there be any uncertainty?” Siddaramaiah stated clearly.
This declaration comes amid growing calls from some Congress legislators advocating for DK Shivakumar to succeed Siddaramaiah as the state’s chief minister. Despite this pressure, Siddaramaiah’s position remains resolute, signaling his determination to complete his tenure.
On the other hand, DK Shivakumar, who also holds the post of state Congress president, addressed these leadership discussions with a measured stance. He clarified that he has not requested anyone to push for his elevation to the chief minister’s role. Furthermore, Shivakumar warned party members against making public statements on leadership changes, stating that those who do so could face disciplinary notices.
“Countless party workers, including myself, have put in tremendous effort. I am not the only one. Thousands upon thousands of workers have contributed to our cause. Our priority should be their hard work,” Shivakumar remarked, emphasizing the need to recognize the collective effort within the party.
When questioned about the leadership tussle, Shivakumar expressed that he has “no choice” but to support Siddaramaiah’s leadership. “What option do I have? I must stand with him and back him fully. I harbor no objections to this. Whatever the party’s top leadership decides will be respected and implemented,” he affirmed.
Additionally, the Deputy Chief Minister pointed out that there is no internal dissatisfaction within the Congress ranks concerning Siddaramaiah’s leadership. His comments aim to downplay rumors of discord and present a united front.
Nevertheless, some voices within the party, including around 100 Congress MLAs in Karnataka, have called for a leadership change, favoring DK Shivakumar as the state’s next chief minister. Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain, a staunch supporter of Shivakumar, appealed to All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala to consider this demand seriously.
However, Surjewala is currently engaged in discussions with Congress MLAs and has stated that no formal conversations regarding a leadership transition have taken place so far.
In summary, while a section of Congress lawmakers advocates for DK Shivakumar to take over as Karnataka’s chief minister, Siddaramaiah remains steadfast in his resolve to complete his term. Shivakumar’s supportive remarks towards Siddaramaiah and calls for unity suggest an attempt to quell factionalism within the party as it navigates internal leadership dynamics ahead of crucial political developments.