No immediate change in Karnataka CM, confusion over leadership to be resolved soon: Mallikarjun Kharge
Kalaburagi : Putting an end to months of speculation, Mallikarjun Kharge has clarified that there will be no immediate change in the Chief Minister’s post in Karnataka, even as he acknowledged internal confusion over leadership issues within the party.
Speaking to media persons in Kalaburagi, Kharge said the Congress high command is aware of the ongoing discussions and differences but assured that the matter would be resolved soon. “There is some confusion regarding leadership in the state, and it is true. But it will be sorted out shortly,” he stated.
Kharge also addressed recurring discussions about his own name being suggested for the Chief Minister’s post. “Some people say I should become the CM. Even the media keeps talking about it. But in the Congress party, ideology and decades of commitment matter more than individual ambitions,” he said, underlining the party’s decision-making process.
Reiterating that the current leadership will continue, Kharge expressed satisfaction with the functioning of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. “We already have a Chief Minister, and he is doing a good job. So, there is no question of changing the CM at this point,” he clarified.
He added that any future decision regarding leadership change would be taken after consultations with senior leaders including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. “Such decisions take time. When the time comes, we will discuss and decide,” he noted.
Kharge emphasized that leadership decisions in the Congress are guided by party principles rather than personal aspirations. “People may say I would be a good CM, you may say it, others may say it—but decisions are made based on party ideology. Ultimately, Sonia Gandhi plays a key role in such decisions,” he added.
The statement comes at a time when political activity within the Karnataka Congress has intensified following the conclusion of elections in five states and the anticipation of bypoll results in the state. Over the past week, ministers and MLAs aligned with both Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar have been making statements, fueling speculation about a possible leadership change.
Kharge’s remarks are also seen as a setback for those who were expecting a major announcement around mid-May, particularly coinciding with Shivakumar’s birthday. For now, the high command’s message is clear—there will be no immediate बदलाव, and the current leadership will continue.
