No Chance For Shivakumar As Karnataka CM? Siddaramaiah Says 'No Vacancy For Leadership Change'

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has firmly dismissed speculation about a leadership change in the state, asserting that he will continue in the role for the full five-year term. “There is no vacancy,” the CM said in response to questions about a possible transition of power within the Congress-led government.

The CM said, "No discussion took place (on CM position), that is my reply. DK Shivakumar himself said that there is no vacancy for the CM post...Whatever decision is taken by the high command, both of us will follow; we will obey it..

The remarks come amid growing buzz over an internal arrangement that could see Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar succeed Siddaramaiah midway through the government’s term. However, the Chief Minister’s statement signals a clear intent to stay the course.

Siddaramaiah is also scheduled to meet AICC General Secretary in charge of Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, later on Thursday to discuss political and governance-related matters. Sources said he has not yet sought an appointment with senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

(More details awaited)

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