Is Dy CM Shivakumar in a Rush or Anxious? Brother Suresh Addresses K'taka Leadership Controversy

Bengaluru, July 12 (NationPress) Former Congress MP D.K. Suresh stated on Saturday that his brother D.K. Shivakumar, who serves as the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) and Deputy Chief Minister, is neither anxious nor in a rush.

Responding to media inquiries at his Bengaluru residence, he addressed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s public claims that he intends to remain in office for a full five years, despite the high command’s directive against discussing leadership changes. Suresh articulated, “There is no internal conflict within the Congress party. The Congress high command, the Chief Minister, the party President, and Dy CM D.K. Shivakumar have all made this clear. Siddaramaiah has affirmed his commitment to leadership. I fail to understand the media's ongoing confusion.”

He continued, “Shivakumar diligently fulfills the responsibilities assigned to him as a loyal party member. He operates in accordance with the party's directives. There’s nothing more to discuss. Currently, the Chief Minister's position is not vacant, so I don’t comprehend why this topic keeps resurfacing.”

Regarding CM Siddaramaiah’s earlier assertions that this would be his last election, contrasted with his current claim about leading the party into 2028, Suresh remarked, “Siddaramaiah is a veteran leader. Politics doesn’t have a retirement age. What matters is political willpower, and the Chief Minister possesses that, which could explain his recent statements.”

When asked why the CM feels the need to repeatedly assert, “I am the CM,” Suresh replied, “I consider myself too insignificant to comment on this matter.”

Addressing claims that D.K. Shivakumar lacks robust MLA support, Suresh stated, “Shivakumar is the KPCC President. It’s not the right time to tally MLA backing. Siddaramaiah has held the Chief Minister's role for two years. As he continues in this capacity, I’m puzzled by the ongoing discussions. You should direct your questions to those perpetuating this narrative.”

“Shivakumar’s demeanor is not about showcasing strength. He is a dedicated Congress worker who respects the party's high command and serves as a mentor to others,” he added.

When asked about claims that Shivakumar’s spiritual advisor predicted he would become CM during this term, Suresh replied, “I am unaware of that. Everyone has their aspirations for someone to attain the CM position. Every district and community desires representation in leadership. Such sentiments are not new; they have been present in every political term.”

Responding to inquiries about his encounters with ED investigations, he noted, “I do not know the reasons behind them. However, I have answered all questions posed to me. They indicated I might be called again, and I am prepared to cooperate as a responsible citizen.”

Finally, in response to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's comment regarding political retirement at 75, Suresh stated, “I maintain that there is no retirement in politics. What matters is how one navigates the boundaries they set for themselves. One should always aim to be a guiding figure and role model for others, as bold actions in this direction will ensure their legacy is remembered.”