Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah: “If High Command Wants Me to Continue, I Will”
As the government completes 2.5 years, the Chief Minister says the final decision on leadership rests with the party's top leaders.
Chikkaballapura: Amid growing talks about a leadership change in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Monday that he is ready to continue in his post if the Congress “High Command” decides so.
Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah emphasized that the party’s top leadership has the final say. He added that both he and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar must respect and accept whatever decision is made.
The 2.5-Year Power-Sharing Talk
The discussion about changing the Chief Minister has heated up recently. On November 20, the Congress government completed the halfway mark of its five-year term. Since the government formed in 2023, there have been rumors of a “power-sharing” agreement. According to these rumors, Siddaramaiah was supposed to hand over the Chief Minister’s post to D.K. Shivakumar after two and a half years.
When reporters asked if Shivakumar would take over, Siddaramaiah avoided a direct answer.
“We will follow the High Command’s decision. If they decide I should continue, I will continue. Ultimately, I must accept it, and Shivakumar should also accept it,” he said.
Cabinet Reshuffle vs. Leadership Change
Siddaramaiah mentioned that a few months ago, the party leadership had agreed to a Cabinet reshuffle (changing the team of ministers). However, at that time, the CM suggested waiting until the government finished two and a half years.
“Now, we will follow whatever the High Command decides,” he added.
Party insiders reveal a strategic battle is taking place:
- Siddaramaiah is pushing for a Cabinet reshuffle. If this is approved, it is a signal that he will likely stay as CM for the full five-year term.
- D.K. Shivakumar wants the party to decide on the leadership change first before any reshuffle happens.
Meetings in Delhi
Political activity has increased in both Bengaluru and New Delhi. On Saturday, Siddaramaiah held a long meeting with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Meanwhile, supporters of D.K. Shivakumar are making their voices heard. Sources say that around ten MLAs supporting Shivakumar traveled to Delhi to meet with Kharge. Another group of six legislators reportedly flew to Delhi on Sunday night to pitch Shivakumar’s name for the top post.
While Kharge is currently in Bengaluru, he is expected to travel to Delhi soon. Top leader Rahul Gandhi is also expected to return from a trip abroad to address the situation.
