Siddaramaiah Says He Will Not Contest 2028 Karnataka Assembly Elections
Veteran Congress leader cites age, health, and rising influence of money in politics as reasons for stepping away from electoral contests.
Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced that he will not contest the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections, marking the beginning of the end of his long electoral career.
Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, the senior Congress leader said his decision was based on his age, health, and concerns over the growing role of money in elections. He confirmed that he will complete his current term but will not seek another mandate in 2028.
Although he plans to step away from contesting elections, Siddaramaiah said he will continue to play an active role in public life and within the party. He added that he intends to guide and mentor younger leaders in the years ahead.
Looking back on his political journey, Siddaramaiah recalled winning his first Assembly election from Chamundeshwari in 1983. He said the political landscape has changed significantly since then, with election campaigns becoming far more expensive and increasingly influenced by financial power. According to him, these changes have made it more difficult for politics driven by ideology to thrive.
His announcement has sparked discussions across Karnataka’s political circles about the future leadership of the Congress in the state. It has also raised questions about political succession in Mysuru and the party’s strategy as it prepares for the next Assembly election.