Karnataka, Nov 20 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday indicated that his tenure as the state Congress president may be drawing to a close, even as he assured party workers that he has no plans to step away from the organisation.
Speaking at an event marking former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary, Shivakumar said he intends to continue strengthening the party structure, irrespective of his formal position.
“Whether I’m around or not is immaterial. But I want to set up 100 party offices during my tenure,” he told party cadres.
‘I cannot hold the post permanently’
Responding to concerns about uncertainty around his future, Shivakumar reminded workers that the KPCC presidency cannot be held indefinitely by one person.
“I cannot hold the post permanently. It has already been 5.5 years, and in March, it will be six years,” he said, adding that the party must create space for new leadership.
“Others should be given an opportunity. But I will be in the leadership. Don’t worry, I will be at the frontline,” he assured.
Appointed KPCC president in May 2020, Shivakumar said he had offered to resign after becoming deputy chief minister in May 2023, but AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi asked him to continue.
Calls for unity amid leadership speculation
Addressing party workers earlier, Shivakumar urged them to stay hopeful and united, expressing confidence that the Congress would regain power in Karnataka.
“Where I am is not important. I am confident the Congress will come back to power. Don’t lose hope… We must work hard,” he said.
His remarks come amid speculation over an internal power-sharing understanding between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, with the government nearing the midpoint of its five-year tenure. Several party leaders have also begun discussing potential changes in the KPCC leadership.
AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal had earlier said Shivakumar would continue as KPCC chief until after the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Since then, leaders including Satish Jarkiholi and K.N. Rajanna—considered close to Siddaramaiah—have shown interest in the role.
‘I’m not someone who runs away’
Later, speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said he was not avoiding responsibility but was committed to setting a healthy precedent for leadership transitions.
“No one can be permanent here. One should leave a mark during their tenure. I will work as party president until I’m told to continue,” he said.
“I’m not someone who runs away. I will work as long as the Gandhi family and the Congress president want me.”
As he spoke, a group of supporters outside the venue raised slogans calling him the “next CM”.