DK Shivakumar, who currently serves as both the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and the president of the Karnataka Congress unit, addressed growing political speculation about a possible change in the chief ministerial position as the state government approaches the halfway point of its five-year term this month. With some supporters loudly projecting him as the potential next Chief Minister, Shivakumar firmly rejected any suggestions of personal ambition, stressing that he never shies away from responsibility and will continue to serve for as long as the Congress leadership requires.
The talk of a leadership transition has intensified because of the so-called “November revolution,” a phrase circulating in political circles to describe a rumoured power-sharing agreement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. According to these discussions, this period could mark the midpoint shift of power. However, Shivakumar sought to redirect attention toward party-building rather than political positioning.
Speaking at an event in Bengaluru marking the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he said that whether he remains in a particular role is not important to him. Instead, he expressed his focus on strengthening the Congress organization, setting a goal of establishing 100 new party offices during his tenure. Reflecting on his current position as state party president, a role he has held since May 2020, he acknowledged that leadership positions should not be permanent and that opportunities should be given to others. Even so, he affirmed that he would remain in a leadership role and continue contributing on the frontlines.
Shivakumar also revealed that he had initially intended to step down as state Congress president when he assumed the post of Deputy Chief Minister in May 2023. However, he continued in the role at the request of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi, stating that he fulfilled his responsibilities and worked hard to strengthen the party throughout his term.
Later, addressing the media, Shivakumar reiterated that he is not avoiding responsibility but instead aims to set a standard for how a party president should work—with dedication, commitment, and discipline. He emphasized that no political position is permanent, and the real goal is to leave behind impactful work. He added that he would continue as state Congress chief for as long as the high command instructs and will remain steadfast in his duties.
Amid chants from supporters proclaiming him as the “next Chief Minister,” Shivakumar reiterated that he is not someone who walks away from challenges and will faithfully serve as long as he has the trust of the Gandhi family and the Congress leadership.
Following the Congress victory in the May 2023 Assembly elections, there had been significant competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the chief ministerial post. While Siddaramaiah was ultimately chosen as Chief Minister, reports at the time suggested that the party had reached an understanding involving a rotational chief minister arrangement, where Shivakumar would take over after two and a half years. However, the party has never officially confirmed such an agreement.
