Udupi (Karnataka), Mar 2: On Sunday, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar reaffirmed his loyalty to the Congress party, stating that any doubts about his commitment to the party and the Gandhi family are unfounded. He expressed confidence that the Congress will reclaim power in the 2028 Assembly elections.
Shivakumar’s comments came in response to speculation surrounding his recent discussions with central party leaders in Delhi and ongoing discussions within political circles regarding a potential change in chief minister later this year, possibly through a “rotational chief minister” or “power-sharing” arrangement.
“I haven’t placed any conditions on anyone, nor is there any necessity for me to do so. I’m just a Karyakarta who adheres to the directives of the party. Condition-setting or blackmailing is not in my nature; I am a dedicated Congress worker,” he stated when questioned about rumors concerning his visit to Delhi.
He further asserted, “If anyone, from any party, doubts my loyalty to the Congress and the Gandhi family, that is their own illusion.” When asked about the speculation regarding a 2.5-year power-sharing agreement, he simply mentioned, “I can only say that in 2028, the Congress party will return to power.”
Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress president, is known to be a strong contender for the chief minister position and has openly expressed his ambition to hold that office.
After the May 2023 Assembly election results, there was significant competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the chief minister role. Ultimately, the Congress party persuaded Shivakumar to accept the position of Deputy Chief Minister. There were reports suggesting an agreement based on a “rotational chief minister” model, which would see Shivakumar ascend to the CM role after two-and-a-half years; however, this arrangement has yet to be officially acknowledged by the party. (PTI)
