New Delhi, May 28: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from his position on Thursday, marking the end of his tenure and potentially resolving the ongoing power struggle in the state. Senior Congress leader and nine-time MLA RV Deshpande hinted at Siddaramaiah’s resignation during a conversation with reporters on Wednesday.
Deshpande stated, “This could happen either tomorrow or the day after.” He expressed surprise at the news of Siddaramaiah clearing the way for his opponents, indicating that discussions had taken place with the Congress high command, leading to this decision.
“We tried to persuade him to remain as Chief Minister, but it seems unlikely now, as he appears to have made up his mind. He may step down soon,” Deshpande added.
His remarks came ahead of a crucial breakfast meeting that Siddaramaiah is scheduled to hold with his cabinet colleagues on Thursday morning. An announcement regarding the power transition is expected to follow this meeting.
On Wednesday, reporters questioned Siddaramaiah about the leadership change during a session in the assembly. He declined to provide detailed information, simply stating, “I will speak tomorrow.”
It is noteworthy that there has been ongoing discord between the factions led by Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Shivakumar has been adamant about a power-sharing formula that was reportedly agreed upon during the formation of the state government, which involved a two-and-a-half-year arrangement. This dispute has escalated to the Congress high command in Delhi, which has had to make a decision after some delay.
Reports suggest that the Congress high command has approved Shivakumar’s promotion as the next Chief Minister, with discussions regarding the selection of cabinet ministers still ongoing in Delhi.
While Deshpande did not specify the name of the next Chief Minister, he emphasized that the decision regarding the power transition would ultimately be made by the Congress high command.
When asked if he would secure a position in the next cabinet, he replied that he was uncertain about that.
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SAK/ABM
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