Shivakumar Downplays Leadership Change Debate, Calls it a 'Secret Deal' Among Senior Congress Leaders
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{ "title": "Shivakumar Downplays Leadership Change Debate, Calls it a 'Secret Deal' Among Senior Congress Leaders", "article": "Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about a potential leadership change in the state, calling it an internal matter involving a select few senior Congress figures. He emphasized that he would not publicly comment on the issue, citing the need to act according to his conscience and avoid actions that might weaken or embarrass the party. The remarks come as talks of a potential shift in the chief minister's post intensified, with some reports suggesting a 2023 power-sharing arrangement between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. However, Shivakumar denied making any appeals to voters in his name, stating that he had simply campaigned in various constituencies. Shivakumar also refuted claims that MLAs supporting him were heading to Delhi to lobby the high command in his favour. When asked about the reports of a power-sharing deal, he declined to comment, stating that it was not his place to speak about such matters. The leadership question has sparked a debate within the party, with some party sources suggesting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is pushing for a Cabinet reshuffle, while Shivakumar wants the leadership question resolved first. Insiders believe that if the high command clears a ministerial reshuffle, it would signal confidence in Siddaramaiah completing the full five-year term, reducing the likelihood of Shivakumar taking over this tenure. "
