The political temperature in Karnataka's ruling Congress party is once again soaring, as a prominent MLA has publicly declared his "200 per cent" certainty that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar will soon ascend to the Chief Minister's chair. The statement has reignited intense speculation about a potential leadership change, just a year and a half after the Siddaramaiah-led government took power.
The remarks come from MC Managuli, a Congress MLA from the Sindagi constituency, who made the bold prediction during a public event, sending ripples through the state's political landscape.
Managuli's Unwavering Confidence
Addressing a gathering, MLA MC Managuli spoke effusively about DK Shivakumar, highlighting his leadership qualities and political prowess.
"DK Shivakumar has done immense work for the party and the state. He is a dynamic leader, and I am 200 per cent sure that he will become the Chief Minister very soon," Managuli asserted, drawing cheers from a section of the crowd.
He further added that Shivakumar's efforts were crucial in bringing the Congress back to power in the state and that his time as CM is a matter of "when," not "if."
The Lingering Power-Sharing Agreement Rumours
Managuli's statement adds fuel to persistent rumours of a power-sharing agreement that was reportedly brokered by the Congress high command after the party's emphatic victory in the 2023 assembly elections. It was widely speculated that Siddaramaiah would serve as Chief Minister for the first half of the term, with DK Shivakumar taking over for the latter half.
- Official Denial: Both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar have repeatedly denied the existence of any such power-sharing formula, maintaining that the high command decided on the leadership.
- Persistent Speculation: Despite official denials, statements from various MLAs and party insiders have kept the speculation alive, indicating a strong undercurrent of ambition within the party.
Internal Dynamics and High Command's Stance
The Congress high command has consistently tried to present a united front in Karnataka, particularly after facing questions about internal strife in other states. However, the open declaration by an MLA like Managuli could be seen as an attempt to pressure the leadership or rally support for Shivakumar.
DK Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President, has been carefully navigating the political landscape, often reiterating his loyalty to the party and the current leadership while subtly positioning himself as a future leader.
