Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah reconsiders 2028 plans amid buzz
Siddaramaiah, once firm about retiring after 2023 polls, now seems open to another political run, sparking fresh speculation.
Siddaramaiah Hints at Continuing Full Term, Keeps 2028 Option Open Amid Leadership Buzz
Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday said that he intends to continue leading the Congress government for its full five-year term — if the party high command decides so. His remarks come at a time when murmurs about leadership changes and succession plans within the state Congress have resurfaced, sparking fresh political chatter.
Speaking to reporters in Mangalore, Siddaramaiah said, “In a democracy, competition is a right. If the high command decides, I will continue as Chief Minister for five years.” His statement appeared calm yet assertive, signaling that he remains confident of his leadership but equally respectful of the Congress leadership in New Delhi.
The 76-year-old leader’s comment comes amid growing speculation about internal power dynamics in Karnataka. The Congress, which stormed back to power in May 2023 with a decisive mandate, has been navigating subtle yet visible tensions over succession — a familiar theme in the state’s political landscape. The renewed discussions began after a series of remarks by party members hinting at potential future changes, though no official statement has been made by the high command.
This isn’t the first time Siddaramaiah’s political future has drawn attention. During the 2023 Assembly elections, he had publicly declared that it would be his last contest — a “final fight” to serve the people of Karnataka. However, recent statements suggest that he has softened that stance, leaving room for another run if circumstances align.
In a recent television interview, Siddaramaiah revealed that many party workers and supporters have urged him to reconsider his decision. “I had said I won’t contest in the 2028 elections. I haven’t decided on it,” he said, smiling slightly as if acknowledging both the pressure and affection from his supporters.
This subtle shift has reignited speculation that Siddaramaiah might not be ready to hang up his boots just yet. Known for his mass appeal and deep connect with the state’s Ahinda base — a coalition of minorities, backward classes, and Dalits — Siddaramaiah remains a crucial pillar of the Congress’s strength in Karnataka.
Adding to the intrigue, his son and MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah recently remarked that his father should mentor Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi as a “successor.” The statement quickly caught political observers’ attention, fueling debates about whether a leadership transition was being quietly discussed within the Congress.
Yathindra later clarified that his remarks had been misunderstood. “I meant that Satish Jarkiholi should carry forward my father’s Ahinda ideology, not succeed him as Chief Minister,” he explained. But by then, the comment had already triggered a flurry of speculation in political circles.
Sources within the party suggest that while Siddaramaiah continues to command strong support from legislators and the grassroots, there are factions within the Congress keen on grooming a second line of leadership for the future. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, is widely seen as the other major power center in the state government — a balancing act that the Congress high command has been managing carefully.
Party insiders believe that the leadership in Delhi is in no hurry to make any changes, especially given the Congress’s relatively stable governance record so far and the challenges of maintaining unity in a large state. For now, the focus appears to be on governance and preparation for the 2028 Assembly elections, where the Congress will seek to retain power in one of its strongest states.
Political observers note that Siddaramaiah’s recent comments may have been a calculated move — both to assert his relevance and to quell whispers of an early transition. Known for his political acumen and timing, he has often surprised both allies and rivals with his ability to stay central in Karnataka’s political narrative.
“Siddaramaiah knows the value of his mass base. He’s a seasoned politician who understands when to strike the right tone. By saying he will continue if the high command wishes, he reinforces loyalty while keeping his options open,” said a senior Congress leader on condition of anonymity.
As things stand, Siddaramaiah’s leadership continues to hold the Congress together in Karnataka. His ability to balance governance, manage factions, and retain popular appeal makes him indispensable — at least for now.
Whether he decides to contest again in 2028 or not, one thing is clear: Siddaramaiah remains at the heart of Karnataka’s political story, navigating its complex currents with the same mix of confidence, caution, and charisma that has defined his long career.