Siddaramaiah Asserts Full Term as Karnataka CM; Shivakumar Says “No Option” But to Support
Leadership Speculations Temporarily Halted Amid Public Declarations
Bengaluru, [Date]: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday firmly dismissed speculation about an imminent leadership change, declaring that he would complete a full five-year term. His statement comes amid persistent rumors that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar could replace him in a power-sharing arrangement.
“Yes, I will remain CM for five years. Do you have any doubt?” Siddaramaiah asserted ahead of a special Cabinet meeting at Nandi Hills in Chikkaballapura district.
Shivakumar, responding to questions about the leadership transition talks, struck a conciliatory tone, stating he had no choice but to support Siddaramaiah.
“What option do I have? I have to stand by him, support him. I don’t have any objection to it. Whatever the party high command says and desires, it will be fulfilled,” Shivakumar said.
Rumors Persist Despite Party Denials
The Congress leadership has repeatedly denied any plans for a mid-term leadership change. AICC general secretary Randeep Surjewala had earlier clarified that no discussions were underway regarding replacing Siddaramaiah. However, Surjewala’s recent meetings with party legislators fueled fresh speculation that the party was gauging opinions on the matter.
Adding to the controversy, Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain claimed—despite facing a show-cause notice for his earlier remarks—that Shivakumar would “200 per cent” become chief minister within two months.
Background: The Power-Sharing Debate
Soon after the Congress formed the government in 2023, reports emerged of a purported power-sharing deal between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, suggesting each would serve as CM for two-and-a-half years. However, the party leadership dismissed these claims, asserting that the final decision rested with the high command.
With Siddaramaiah’s unequivocal statement and Shivakumar’s public backing, the leadership tussle appears to have subsided—at least for now. Yet, given the history of political maneuvering in Karnataka, observers remain cautious about whether the calm will last.
What Next?
While Siddaramaiah’s declaration seeks to project stability, Hussain’s repeated assertions indicate that underlying tensions may persist. The Congress high command’s stance—and Shivakumar’s willingness to abide by it—will be crucial in determining whether the current truce holds or if fresh turmoil emerges in the months ahead.
For now, Siddaramaiah’s message is clear: he intends to stay in office for the full term. Whether all factions within the party accept that remains to be seen.
