No Karnataka Chief Minister Change For Now, Says Mallikarjun Kharge Amid Leadership Tussle

By Political Bureau, Bangalore Mail

BENGALURU: Amid swirling rumors and mounting pressure within the state Congress unit, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge has officially broken his silence on the leadership situation in Karnataka. Speaking on Thursday, Kharge ruled out any immediate plans to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stating that no such change is on the cards “for now.”

The statement comes at a critical juncture as the Congress government in Karnataka recently crossed its 2.5-year halfway mark on November 20, 2025. This milestone has reignited intense lobbying from the camp of Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, whose supporters claim a power-sharing agreement was brokered during the government’s formation in 2023.

“Decisions Will Take Time”

Addressing the media regarding the speculation, Kharge indicated that while discussions are ongoing, the party high command is not in a rush.

“There is already a Chief Minister here,” Kharge said. “If Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and I have to take any decision regarding a change, it will take some time. Let’s wait and see.”

The AICC President also responded to suggestions from Home Minister G Parameshwara, who hinted that the party would welcome Kharge himself as the Chief Minister. Kharge maintained a diplomatic stance, attributing his future to party ideology and the discretion of Sonia Gandhi.

High Stakes Post-May 4

The political atmosphere in Bengaluru remains charged as the state awaits the results of Assembly elections in four states and the Union Territory, along with crucial bypolls in two Karnataka constituencies on May 4. Political analysts suggest that a cabinet revamp or a leadership reshuffle could be discussed more formally after these results are declared.

The opposition has also joined the fray, with JD(S) leader and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy claiming that nearly 40 Congress MLAs are prepared to head to Delhi next month to push for leadership changes. When asked about these claims, Kharge remained dismissive, telling reporters to “ask Kumaraswamy for details.”

The 2.5-Year Factor

The crux of the tension lies in the perceived “50-50 formula.” Supporters of DK Shivakumar believe that the Vokkaliga strongman was promised the CM chair for the second half of the term. Conversely, the Siddaramaiah camp remains confident in the incumbent’s leadership, citing his successful implementation of the “Five Guarantees” and his appeal among the AHINDA (Minorities, Backward Classes, and Dalits) vote bank.

As the Congress high command looks to balance regional aspirations with administrative stability, Kharge’s “for now” caveat suggests that while the status quo remains, the door to future negotiations is far from closed.