Will the High Command Decide G. Parameshwara's Chief Minister Aspirations?
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Key Takeaways
Mysuru (Karnataka), Feb 7 (NationPress) In the midst of the ongoing leadership conflict within the Congress party in Karnataka, Home Minister G. Parameshwara addressed inquiries regarding his potential aspirations for the Chief Minister position, emphasizing that the ultimate decision lies with the party's high command.
Parameshwara has been identified as a likely CM candidate by the Siddaramaiah faction, should a leadership transition occur. As one of the senior leaders from the Dalit community in Karnataka, his remarks are particularly noteworthy given the current leadership struggle between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar.
While speaking to the media in Mysuru, Parameshwara stated, “The matter of leadership is not for any individual to decide. Neither I, nor CM Siddaramaiah, nor Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar can determine this. Such decisions are made by our party's high command. Therefore, my personal aspirations are irrelevant.”
In response to questions regarding the leadership situation, Parameshwara noted, “Until we receive a directive from the high command, CM Siddaramaiah will remain in his role. The high command has appointed him as Chief Minister.”
He underlined the importance of maintaining stable governance, asserting that CM Siddaramaiah is ensuring stability. “In this context, Siddaramaiah will remain as Chief Minister until the high command reaches a decision. There are no discussions regarding power sharing. If no proposal exists, then the topic of power sharing is moot. Any considerations regarding a Cabinet reshuffle are at the discretion of the Chief Minister,” he elaborated.
When questioned about his supporters chanting for him to be the next CM, he remarked, “Such sentiments reflect the hopes of my supporters. However, mere chants will not change the situation. I've noticed that supporters of Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar chant for him as well, while CM Siddaramaiah’s supporters affirm that he will complete his term.”
When pressed again about any desire to become Chief Minister, Parameshwara reiterated that the decision is not in his hands but rests with the high command.
“There will always be discussions and opinions on various matters. I acknowledge this, but I cannot make this decision; only the high command possesses that authority,” he concluded.
Following these developments within the ruling Congress party, Karnataka's Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashoka, claimed on Saturday that the “conflict” between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar has reignited.
A resurgence of the leadership dispute has emerged in Karnataka, with CM Siddaramaiah’s son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, asserting that calls for a leadership shift have been dismissed by the high command, affirming that his father will serve a full term as Chief Minister.
In response to Yathindra Siddaramaiah's remarks, D.K. Shivakumar humorously stated on Friday, “The CM's son is our high command, and I will adhere to whatever he suggests.”