D K Suresh Expresses Desire to See Brother Shivakumar as Karnataka Chief Minister Amid Succession Speculations

Bengaluru:

Former Congress MP D K Suresh expressed his desire on Wednesday to see his elder brother and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar become the Chief Minister, stating that if it is in his destiny, Shivakumar will eventually occupy the top position.

When questioned about rumors regarding a potential change in leadership and the so-called "November revolution," Suresh emphasized that the party's decision would be final and everyone would respect it.

Speculation has been circulating about a potential leadership transition in Karnataka when the Congress government reaches its half-term mark next month, an event some have dubbed the "November revolution."

"I have no information regarding this matter. For me, November signifies 'Kannada Rajyotsava' (state formation day) and celebrating the festival of Kannadigas," Suresh stated.

"I'm not aware of other developments. You should direct questions about power-sharing and cabinet reshuffling talks expected after the Bihar poll results to the Chief Minister, party president, and AICC leaders," Suresh told reporters.

Regarding his brother's political future, he remarked, "If it's destined to happen, it will. Otherwise, it won't. Why worry? I've expressed my wish to see my brother as Chief Minister. If fate permits, it will materialize." When asked about efforts toward achieving that goal, he responded, "No special efforts are being made; whatever the party decides is final. Shivakumar serves as the state party president and Deputy CM. His responsibility is to conduct himself in a manner that protects the party's interests. He's doing precisely that, and I'm confident he'll continue to do so."

Political circles in Karnataka, particularly within the ruling Congress, have been buzzing with speculation about a potential leadership change later this year, citing an alleged power-sharing agreement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.

When asked if Shivakumar was unconcerned about the rumored "November revolution," Suresh explained, "As party president, his duty is treating everyone equally. He must behave in a way that safeguards the party's interests and dignity, which he's doing. He will adhere to the party's decisions."

Addressing questions about whether the time had come for Shivakumar to assume the Chief Minister role amid rumors of a 2.5-year power-sharing arrangement, Suresh replied, "I don't possess information about that."

"It's not about 2.5 years. The people have given Congress a five-year mandate. We should protect public interests and fulfill our promises. Both the government and party are working toward that goal."

Amid these speculations, Siddaramaiah declared on Monday that he would continue in office for the full five-year term, subject to the Congress high command's decision.

There was intense competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the top position following the Assembly election results in May 2023.

The Congress high command eventually persuaded Shivakumar to accept the Deputy Chief Minister position.

Reports at that time suggested a "rotational chief minister" arrangement had been agreed upon, with Shivakumar taking over after two and a half years. However, the party has never officially confirmed this arrangement.

When questioned about Siddaramaiah's reported statement not ruling out contesting the 2028 Assembly polls, suggesting the party still needed his leadership, Suresh affirmed that Congress would contest the 2028 elections under the incumbent Chief Minister's leadership.

"There are political figures aged 95 and 98 still active in politics, so there's nothing wrong if Siddaramaiah expresses his intention to run again. He's our leader, and we'll approach the next elections under his guidance," he stated.

Asked whether Siddaramaiah was indispensable to the party, Suresh replied, "He possesses all the qualities of a leader. He's strong, healthy, and actively participates in daily events and programs. He's providing effective administration, so there's nothing inappropriate about facing elections under his leadership."

Regarding demands for a "Dalit Chief Minister" and plans by community leaders in Congress to organize a Dalit convention amid leadership change discussions, Suresh said there was nothing wrong with such initiatives as they would strengthen party organization.

When asked if the Dalit convention should be held under the party's banner, he responded, "That decision rests with those planning to organize it."