Speculation swirls around Karnataka Deputy CM's possible CM shift

Congress' Mandya MLA Ravikumar Gowda, popularly known as Ravi Ganiga, has sparked speculation within the ruling party circles in Karnataka, on October 28, 2023. Gowda claimed that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar is slated to assume the role of chief minister after two-and-a-half years into the government's tenure. This assertion has prompted mixed responses from ministers, with some affirming that the current Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, will serve a full term, while others suggest that the decision ultimately lies with the high command.

A dinner meeting hosted at the residence of Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday evening further fueled political conjecture. The gathering was attended by Siddaramaiah, Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa, and PWD Minister Satih Jarakiholi, but notably absent was Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar.

Minister Mahadevappa, a trusted associate of Siddaramaiah, dismissed the speculations, stating firmly, "Siddaramaiah will be there for five years... the CM post is not vacant, isn't he CM now?" He downplayed the dinner meeting, asserting that it was a casual affair centred around food and camaraderie.

Meanwhile, Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna expressed his desire for Siddaramaiah to complete a full five-year term, emphasizing that the final decision rests with the high command. Siddaramaiah, who assumed office on May 20 of this year following a decisive victory for the Congress, previously faced a tight contest with Shivakumar for the chief ministerial position. Ultimately, Shivakumar was appointed Deputy Chief Minister.

While reports of a potential rotational chief minister arrangement surfaced, designating Shivakumar to take over after two-and-a-half years, the party has not officially confirmed this development. State Congress President Shivakumar cautioned party MLAs against making public statements on internal matters, emphasizing that such actions could prompt official notices.

Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi emphasized that the decision regarding a potential change in the chief ministerial position lies with the high command and is yet to be determined at their level.

Agriculture Minister N Cheluvarayaswamy affirmed that leadership decisions would be made by the legislature party and AICC high command at the appropriate juncture. He underlined the dedication of both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to the state's interests.

With more than 50 potential contenders for the chief ministerial role within the Congress party, Cheluvarayaswamy asserted that the position is not currently vacant. Siddaramaiah, addressing queries about the dinner meeting, clarified that he and fellow ministers were invited by Parameshwara for a casual gathering, emphasising that it was devoid of political discussions. He expressed his displeasure at attempts to sensationalise the event, urging the media to refrain from speculative narratives.