NEW DELHI: Congress MLA Basavaraju V Shivaganga on Sunday claimed that deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar will ascend to the position of chief minister by December. He predicted that Shivakumar would continue as chief minister for 7.5 years from December, anticipating the party’s success in forthcoming Assembly elections.
“Write it down, it will happen by December. I can also write and give it to you in blood if you want, that he (Shivakumar) will become CM by December. If he takes charge in December, he will run the administration, including the next five-year term too, so by and large, he will be CM for 7.5 years,” Shivaganga said.
When questioned about a potential power-sharing agreement, the Channagiri MLA highlighted Shivakumar’s party contributions, noting his role in improving the party’s performance in both Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
“He (Shivakumar) has made history. He has organised the party, invested his resources, and sacrificed a lot for it. His silence or composure should not be mistaken for weakness. The high command is aware of everything, and I am a hundred per cent sure he will be CM by December,” he said.
Discussions within Karnataka’s political circles, particularly in the ruling Congress, suggest a possible leadership transition later this year under a “rotational chief minister” arrangement.
Shivakumar, currently serving as Karnataka Congress president, has openly expressed his aspirations for the chief minister’s position.
Shivaganga declared his steadfast support for Shivakumar, committing to back any decision the leader makes.
“If he (Shivakumar) doesn’t get justice, then being in the Congress party is pointless. It is because of his organisational efforts that 75-80 of us were newly elected. He is essential for the party, and we are confident that the high command will make him CM,” he added.
The MLA assured that Shivakumar’s elevation to CM would occur through Congress’ own strength. “It is our right. We will demand it, and the high command will recognise his efforts,” he maintained.
After Congress’ victory in May 2023 Assembly elections, Siddaramaiah secured the CM position while Shivakumar accepted the deputy chief minister role, following intense competition between them.
Although reports indicated a “rotational chief minister” arrangement where Shivakumar would take over after two-and-a-half years, the party has not officially confirmed this agreement.
Shivaganga requested the high command to control cooperation minister K N Rajanna’s public criticism of Shivakumar. “He is causing embarrassment to the party and the government. I urge the high command to take action against Rajanna,” he remarked.
Rajanna, aligned with Siddaramaiah’s faction, maintains that the current CM will complete the full five-year term.
