Is the Final Decision on Karnataka's Chief Ministership Confidential?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- D.K. Shivakumar emphasizes party confidentiality regarding leadership.
- Party unity is essential for survival and future elections.
- Shivakumar trusts his instincts and does not seek the Chief Minister's position.
- Voters in Karnataka support collective leadership.
- Future elections are a priority for the Congress party.
Bengaluru, Nov 25 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Tuesday that the ultimate decision regarding the Chief Minister's position remains a confidential issue among select party leaders, emphasizing that he will refrain from public discussions that could embarrass the party.
“I aim to strengthen my party. Our existence is tied to the party's survival. With dedicated party workers, we thrive. Our Chief Minister has made a commitment, being a senior figure and a valuable asset to the party, completing over seven and a half years in governance. He is also set to present the upcoming budget, which is a source of joy,” he remarked.
Shivakumar, who is in contention for the Chief Minister's role, shared a ride with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge to the Bengaluru International Airport on Tuesday.
As the government marks two and a half years in office, he noted that he has not solicited the central leadership for the Chief Minister's role.
“I trust my instincts. It’s crucial to act based on our moral compass. Siddaramaiah has significantly contributed to the party's growth, and we must unite to prioritize the 2028 Assembly elections and the 2029 Lok Sabha elections,” added Shivakumar.
He highlighted that constituents across all four districts have rallied behind the party, desiring to see Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister.
Shivakumar stated that votes were cast for the party's collective leadership, asserting, “The electorate did not vote solely for me. In all 224 constituencies, our party workers have exerted more effort than I have.”
While addressing the recent visit of MLAs to Delhi, he mentioned that those with ambitions for ministerial roles had traveled there.
In response to comments from Chief Minister's Economic Advisor Basavaraj Rayareddy and Sadananda Gowda regarding power-sharing, he clarified that he is not their spokesperson and cannot comment on their statements.
He asserted that no party can thrive without a solid foundation, which he regards as the essence of the Congress party.
“Just like societies, PLDs, municipalities, and panchayats are our treasures, this is also our asset. Even if we have only 300 minor votes, those 300 leaders have come together to ensure the workers' victory. That’s why, despite my workload, I have come to vote. If we don’t show up, villagers might question the importance of voting if leaders themselves don’t participate,” he concluded.