‘We’re Together for 2028’: Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar Address Karnataka CM Tussle in Joint Presser

Amid ongoing talks of a potential leadership change in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy, DK Shivakumar, met for breakfast to address the alleged 'rotational CM deal' dispute. The meeting aimed to dispel rumours of discord between the two leaders. Siddaramaiah clarified that there are no differences between him and his deputy, focusing on the 2028 assembly and local body elections.

During a joint press briefing after their meeting, Siddaramaiah stated, "There are no differences between us and there will be no differences in the future. Our agenda is the 2028 elections. Local body elections are important. We discussed them. We also discussed bringing back Congress in the 2028 elections," as reported by ANI. The leadership question arose as the Congress government reached two and a half years in office on November 20.

Speculations and Clarifications

Shivakumar expressed his commitment to working alongside Siddaramaiah, saying, "Whatever the high command says, we will follow that, and there is no group. Even now, we are working together. Whatever the CM said, I am with the CM." Both leaders reassured their unified front and adherence to the party's directives amid the power 'tussle' speculations.

The deputy CM further emphasised the party's goals, stating, "With the support of all of you, we have brought the Congress government and we are working as per our promise. The people of the state are giving their full support. We have to fulfill their wishes. We are working in that direction," highlighting their focus on fulfilling the people's expectations.

High Command's Role

Siddaramaiah mentioned the involvement of senior Congress figures like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge in addressing the situation, with a significant meeting expected on November 30. "We have decided that we will follow whatever the high command says. There will be no confusion from tomorrow. There is still no confusion. Some media reporters have created the confusion," Siddaramaiah remarked, assuring alignment with party leadership.

The leadership change topic gained momentum as the Congress government marked its midway term. Initially, Siddaramaiah had stated his intention to complete a full term, whereas Shivakumar had reportedly been assured of leadership after two and a half years under a rotational agreement.

The breakfast meeting between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar aimed to quash rumours of a rift and reinforce their cooperation towards shared political objectives. Both leaders reiterated their dedication to working together under the guidance of the party's high command, focusing on the 2028 elections and addressing state residents' needs.