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Mallikarjun Kharge clarifies decision on Karnataka CM change will be collective

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has clarified that any decision regarding a possible change in Karnataka Chief Minister will be taken collectively by the party's high command. He emphasised that the decision-making process involves himself, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi together. Kharge stated that no date has been finalised yet for any leadership change. The Congress government in Karnataka has been witnessing internal differences over leadership-sharing arrangements between supporters of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

Key Points: Kharge on Karnataka CM row: Decision by all three of us

  • Kharge clarifies CM change decision will be collective among top three Congress leaders
  • No date finalised for any leadership change in Karnataka
  • Internal differences persist between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar supporters
  • Decision will prioritise Karnataka's interests, says Congress chief
3 min read

"Decision will be made by all three of us together": Mallikarjun Kharge on Karnataka CM row

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge says decision on Karnataka CM change will be taken collectively by him, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi. No date finalised yet.

"Decision will be made by all three of us together": Mallikarjun Kharge on Karnataka CM row
"The decision will be made by all three of us together: myself as AICC President, Sonia Gandhi as CPP Chairperson, and Rahul Gandhi as Leader of the Opposition. - Mallikarjun Kharge"

Kalaburagi, May 1

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday clarified that any decision regarding a possible change in Karnataka Chief Minister will be taken collectively by the party's high command, comprising himself, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi.

Speaking to the media, Kharge said, "They said there's a talk of change every day. Let me clarify, the decision will be made by all three of us together: myself as AICC President, Sonia Gandhi as CPP Chairperson, and Rahul Gandhi as Leader of the Opposition."

He emphasised that the Congress high command follows a structured consultative process involving senior leadership before arriving at any conclusion on key organisational and political matters.

"I always emphasise our collective decision-making process, yet you often spin it as if Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi aren't involved. That's not the case. Within the High Command, we hold extensive discussions and consult with other senior leaders, carefully weighing the potential outcomes before taking any action. Once we've set a date, we will reach a final decision together. As of now, no date has been finalised, so it's premature to speculate on any changes," he added.

Kharge further stated that once a decision is taken, it will be in the best interest of Karnataka and urged everyone to respect the final call of the party leadership.

"I urge you to report the facts: we are committed to our word, and any decision made will prioritise the state's interests. Everyone must respect the High Command's final decision," he asserted.

Earlier on Thursday, Kharge had said that the Congress high command is expected to soon resolve the leadership uncertainty in Karnataka, either by allowing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to continue in office or by approving a cabinet reshuffle, depending on the organisational assessment.

The Congress government in Karnataka has been witnessing internal differences over leadership-sharing arrangements, particularly between supporters of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Sections within the party have been demanding that Shivakumar be made Chief Minister for the remaining term, citing an alleged 2023 "power-sharing agreement".

The leadership tussle has led to multiple rounds of discussions between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in an effort to avoid escalation and maintain stability within the state government.

The issue gained momentum after the government crossed the halfway mark of its five-year term in November last year. Along with Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, Home Minister G Parameshwara is also seen as a key figure in the internal leadership dynamics within the Karnataka Congress unit.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Kharge sahab is right. In a party like Congress, important decisions are always taken collectively by the high command. We have seen how individual ambitions can destabilise a government. Siddaramaiah has done decent work, but if the party thinks a change is needed, they should do it swiftly. No point dragging this on.
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Vikram M
The high command culture is a curse for Congress. Instead of democratically choosing leaders, they keep playing these power games. If Shivakumar was promised CM, why not honour it? If not, why create expectations? This backroom dealing is why Congress cannot match BJP's organisational clarity.
R
Rohit P
As a Kannadiga, I just want stable governance. Whether it's Siddaramaiah or Shivakumar, give us one clear CM who can focus on development without this continuous infighting. Karnataka deserves better than this power struggle. The Congress should learn from Modi's clear leadership structure.
S
Sneha F
Honestly, the way Kharge is handling this is commendable. He is not giving in to media pressure or factional demands. The high command including Sonia ji and Rahul ji will definitely take the right decision. We should trust the process rather than spreading rumours every day. Let them work in peace.
R
Rahul R
What's the point of having a high command that can't decide even after 6 months of speculation? Siddaramaiah had his time, let DK Shivakumar take over now. At least he is young and energetic. The old guard needs to step aside gracefully. Congress needs fresh faces to survive in Karnataka.

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