CM change was a “secret agreement” between four to five people: DK Shivakumar explosive statement

Bengaluru: The power struggle within the Karnataka Congress has reached a new flashpoint, with tensions escalating between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s camp and the faction led by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

While Siddaramaiah’s supporters are pushing their strategy on one side, the Shivakumar camp is formulating a counter-strategy to strengthen its position. Amid this growing friction, D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday made a striking statement, asserting that he had never asked to be made Chief Minister.

Speaking to reporters, he clarified that he has no intention of publicly discussing the CM change issue, calling it a “secret pact between four to five leaders.” Shivakumar added, “I believe in my conscience.”

The controversy gained momentum after November 20, when the Congress government completed two-and-a-half years in office. The leadership issue resurfaced as many Congress leaders recalled the alleged 2023 “power-sharing agreement” between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, deepening the internal debate on whether the CM post should now change hands.

Reiterating his loyalty to the party, Shivakumar—who is also the KPCC president—stated that he would never weaken the Congress or create embarrassment. “If the party exists, we all exist. I will not do anything that damages the party,” he said.

Responding to questions on Siddaramaiah’s statements, Shivakumar described him as a senior leader and an asset to the Congress. “He has completed 7.5 years as Chief Minister, including his past term. He says he will present the next budget—let him present it,” he remarked.

Shivakumar maintained that the ongoing leadership discussion should not be aired publicly: “I have not requested anyone to make me Chief Minister. This is a secret understanding among a few people. I do not want to speak openly about it. We must work with a clear conscience.”

The escalating CM-chair debate has brought renewed focus on the internal dynamics of the ruling party ahead of the next phase of governance. As both camps continue to strengthen their manoeuvres, party insiders believe the Congress high command may soon have to intervene to provide clarity and put an end to the confusion brewing within the organisation.

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