Belagavi (Karnataka), Oct 23 (NationPress) Karnataka's Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi, who is a close ally of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has responded to speculation about his potential succession to the chief ministership, asserting that the final decision will rest with the party.

Recently, Congress MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah remarked that his father, CM Siddaramaiah, is nearing the end of his political journey, indicating that Minister Jarkiholi could be a suitable successor.

Addressing the media in Belagavi, Jarkiholi stated, “There is still ample time; we should wait and observe. Nothing can be definitively stated at this moment. The party must determine who will lead us. Our aim will be to unify everyone, and the ultimate verdict will come from the party.”

He further clarified that Yathindra's comments reflected his personal viewpoint. “In the end, it will be the party and legislators who decide. Regarding Yathindra’s assertion that I am a fitting candidate to lead post-Siddaramaiah, I have previously mentioned my ambition to claim the CM's position in 2028. However, with approximately 30 months remaining, there is no urgency for discussion at this time,” he added.

“The party will make decisions in due time, and we will cross that bridge when we come to it. Yathindra’s remarks are merely his personal opinion. Everyone has the right to express their views. We cannot finalize everything right now. After 30 months, the decision will depend on the party, legislators, and the prevailing political climate in the state,” Jarkiholi stated.

Speculation has heightened following CM Siddaramaiah's son, MLC Yathindra, indicating that his father is in the twilight of his political career. He expressed confidence that Minister Jarkiholi would lead those who advocate for scientific and progressive ideologies during this pivotal time.

Yathindra stated, “Today, my father is at the conclusion of his political career. He is in the final phase of his political life. At this critical juncture, for those who adopt scientific and progressive ideas, Minister Jarkiholi will assume leadership.”

“Minister Jarkiholi will guide all who support the Congress party's ideology. I am confident that he will lead by example. It is uncommon to find leaders devoted to their principles. Minister Jarkiholi has embraced this responsibility, and I urge him to persist in this endeavor,” Yathindra added.

These declarations have ignited discussions within state political spheres, as CM Siddaramaiah has affirmed his intention to complete his term and spearhead the party in the upcoming Assembly elections. Conversely, supporters of Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar are vocally advocating for Shivakumar to be granted the opportunity to serve as Chief Minister, citing his contributions to the party.

Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar has been actively visiting temples, asserting that the party’s higher leadership will ultimately make the decision. Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah’s faction insists that the choice should reflect the sentiments of the MLAs.

Shivakumar remarked that no individual is greater than the party. “Party workers must remain loyal to the party. We have not permitted any division or factional politics. If I had desired to engage in such behavior, I could have done so easily.”