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DK Shivakumar’s refusal to deny a leadership transition has kept the ‘change of guard’ narrative alive
While he refused to divulge the specifics of his high-level discussions with the Chief Minister and party leadership, he maintained that the current administration is functioning as a cohesive team under the freedom granted by the Congress high command. (File photo)
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has once again stirred the political landscape in Karnataka, hinting at a private agreement between himself and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Speaking at a press conference at Karnataka Bhawan, Shivakumar remained tight-lipped yet suggestive when questioned about a potential midterm change and persistent rumours of a two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula. “I can’t disclose what transpired amongst us,” he said.
Shortly after, the Deputy CM emphasised the collective effort required to win the state, noting that the government was formed through the hard work of every party worker and MLA. While he refused to divulge the specifics of his high-level discussions with the Chief Minister and party leadership, he maintained that the current administration is functioning as a cohesive team under the freedom granted by the Congress high command.
When asked directly if he harboured aspirations to serve as Chief Minister for a full five-year term, Shivakumar took a humble stance, pivoting to his long history with the Congress. Having worked for the party since 1980, he remarked that after 45 years of service, he views himself primarily as a party worker rather than someone merely seeking power and position. Despite this modest framing, his refusal to deny a leadership transition has kept the “change of guard” narrative alive, even as he dismissed media reports of a reshuffle after the Sankranthi festival as mere speculation.
The Deputy CM also addressed internal party dynamics, including a recent dinner meeting that sparked rumours of political manoeuvring. He downplayed the event, describing it as a routine interaction with ministers and industrialists. Furthermore, he sidestepped questions regarding a planned “AHINDA” convention in Mysuru, widely seen as a show of strength for Siddaramaiah, by simply wishing the organisers well.
Shivakumar concluded by deflecting questions on cabinet expansion to the Chief Minister and responded with sharp sarcasm to criticisms from cabinet colleague KN Rajanna. Following Rajanna’s letters to Rahul Gandhi blaming Shivakumar’s presidency for parliamentary election lapses, the Deputy CM retorted, “I don’t have enough experience; I will come back with adequate training,” highlighting the simmering tensions within the state’s top leadership.
December 25, 2025, 00:06 IST
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