Shivakumar Set to Become Karnataka CM by May 15, Claims Congress MLA

Bengaluru, April 2026 : Speculation over a possible leadership change in Karnataka has gathered momentum within the Congress, with party leaders offering contrasting timelines and signals even as the high command remains officially silent on the issue.

Adding fuel to the ongoing debate, Congress MLA Iqbal Hussain on Tuesday confidently predicted that Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar would assume the Chief Minister’s post by May 15. Notably, the date coincides with Shivakumar’s 64th birthday, lending further intrigue to the assertion.

Speaking to reporters in Ramanagara, Hussain described May 15 as the “final date,” reiterating his earlier claims that Shivakumar would eventually take over the top post. A known loyalist of the Deputy Chief Minister, he said it was the collective wish of party leaders and the public to see Shivakumar lead the state. He also expressed confidence that under Shivakumar’s leadership, Karnataka would witness accelerated development across sectors.

While acknowledging that he had previously suggested different timelines, Hussain maintained that his latest prediction was definitive. “It is certain that he will become Chief Minister,” he asserted, adding that party workers are eager to see Shivakumar take charge and steer governance.

However, the developments come amid parallel signals from other senior leaders, reflecting the complexity of the situation. In a significant remark, senior Congress leader K. N. Rajanna stated that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is willing to step down if directed by party leader Rahul Gandhi. The comment has been interpreted as an indication that the final decision rests firmly with the party’s central leadership.

Meanwhile, senior minister Satish Jarkiholi has urged the Congress high command to resolve the uncertainty at the earliest. His remarks came after a visit to New Delhi, where he met Mallikarjun Kharge and submitted a formal appeal seeking clarity on the leadership question. Jarkiholi reportedly conveyed that prolonged speculation is causing discomfort within party ranks and affecting administrative focus.

The issue has also been taken up by K. H. Muniyappa, who met senior party leaders including Kharge and K. C. Venugopal in the national capital. Muniyappa indicated that a decision on the leadership issue could be expected by the end of May, suggesting that deliberations are actively underway at the highest levels.

He emphasised the need for a swift resolution, stating that uncertainty over leadership should not linger as it could impact governance and party unity. According to sources, multiple leaders have conveyed similar concerns to the high command in recent days.

Interestingly, both factions within the state unit appear to be engaging the central leadership simultaneously, reflecting a coordinated push for clarity rather than open confrontation. Shivakumar himself had recently completed a three-day visit to Delhi, further intensifying speculation about behind-the-scenes discussions.

Despite the growing chorus of voices, the Congress leadership has not issued any official statement on a possible change. For now, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah continues in office, even as political observers closely watch developments leading up to mid-May and beyond.

With key leaders aligning their positions and timelines, the coming weeks are likely to be crucial in determining whether Karnataka will witness a leadership transition—or whether the current arrangement will continue.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)