The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka): In the picturesque town of Gokarna, Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar stirred political waters on Wednesday by suggesting that his future as the Chief Minister is a decision that rests with the Congress party. This statement comes amid continued speculation and internal competition regarding the state’s leadership roles.
The backdrop of this development is the fierce rivalry that emerged between Shivakumar and current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah following last May’s Assembly election results. Although the party ultimately placed Shivakumar in the Deputy Chief Minister’s position, rumors have since circulated about a possible “rotational Chief Minister formula.” Such an arrangement would presumably elevate Shivakumar to the Chief Ministerial post after two and a half years, though this has not been officially acknowledged by the party.
Shivakumar’s remarks were made during his visit to a temple in Uttara Kannada district, where a priest invoked divine blessings for his ascension to the Chief Minister’s role. Addressing the media, Shivakumar, who has previously been open about his Chief Ministerial aspirations, commented on the speculation surrounding a mid-term leadership shift. He noted that while personal ambitions and public speculations exist, the ultimate decision lies with the Congress party.
Currently serving under Siddaramaiah’s leadership as both Deputy Chief Minister and the state’s Congress President, Shivakumar emphasized the collective goal of advancing the state’s progress under the existing administration. He acknowledged the support and prayers from various quarters, including priests and supporters, for his success but reiterated that expressions of such desires are part of the democratic discourse. According to Shivakumar, these aspirations and the decisions regarding leadership positions are matters for the party to determine in due course.