‘I Will Remain CM For 5 Years’: Siddaramaiah Dismisses Rift Buzz In Karnataka Congress

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday firmly dismissed all speculation about a mid-term leadership change, asserting that he will remain in his post for the full five-year term. The statement is a strong attempt to quell the persistent rumors of a rift within the state Congress unit.

“Yes, I will continue as Chief Minister. Why do you have any doubts?” Siddaramaiah told reporters, directly challenging the ongoing political chatter that his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar, could soon replace him. He also took a swipe at the opposition BJP and JD(S), asking, “Are they the Congress high command?” for fanning the rumors.

Presenting a united front, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also moved to clear the air, stating there is no discord within the party. “There is no disgruntlement within the ruling Congress and when Siddaramaiah is there as the CM, there is no need for any discord on the leadership issue,” Shivakumar said.

The state Congress president also took a firm line against public dissent, warning that notices will be issued to any party leaders who make public statements about a change in leadership. He confirmed that he has already issued a show-cause notice to one MLA for openly demanding that he be made the chief minister. “I have not asked anyone to make me the CM,” Shivakumar clarified.

The coordinated statements from the top two leaders come as AICC General Secretary Randeep Surjewala is in Bengaluru, holding one-on-one meetings with party MLAs in what is being seen as a damage-control exercise.

For months, the Karnataka Congress has been battling murmurs of a power-sharing agreement allegedly struck between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar at the time of government formation in May 2023. While never officially confirmed, the rumored deal has led to different factions openly lobbying for their respective leaders, causing repeated embarrassment for the party.

On Monday, in a show of unity, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar had held hands before the media, asserting that their government was “as solid as a rock.” With today’s categorical statements, both leaders have made their strongest attempt yet to put an end to the damaging speculation.