Bengaluru: The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) on Saturday unanimously elected Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar as its leader, paving the way for him to assume office as the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. The development brings an end to prolonged speculation over the state’s leadership transition and clears the path for the formation of a new Congress government under Shivakumar’s leadership.
Siddaramaiah Proposes Shivakumar’s Name
The CLP meeting was held at the Assembly Conference Hall in Vidhana Soudha on Saturday evening amid intense political anticipation. Outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah proposed Shivakumar’s name for the CLP leadership, while senior Congress leader G. Parameshwara seconded the proposal.
The resolution was unanimously approved by all Congress legislators present at the meeting. The process was overseen by AICC General Secretary K. C. Venugopal and Karnataka affairs in-charge Randeep Surjewala.
Swearing-In Ceremony Scheduled for June 3
Prior to the CLP meeting, Shivakumar was accorded a grand reception by party workers and supporters upon his arrival at Vidhana Soudha. When asked by reporters about the date of his swearing-in ceremony, he confirmed that it would take place on June 3.
In a symbolic gesture, Shivakumar offered respects at the steps of Vidhana Soudha before entering the Assembly premises.
Following his election as CLP leader, he met Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot and formally staked claim to form the next government.
Cabinet Formation Takes Shape
Attention has now shifted to the composition of the new cabinet. Sources within the party indicated that Shivakumar has expressed reservations over proposals to appoint four Deputy Chief Ministers in the new government.
According to political sources, he conveyed to the Congress high command that such a move could trigger dissatisfaction among senior leaders who may not be accommodated in those positions.
Limited Initial Cabinet Expansion
Party sources said only a select group of ministers is likely to be sworn in alongside Shivakumar during the inaugural ceremony at Bengaluru’s Glass House, Lok Bhavan, on June 3. A broader cabinet expansion is expected to follow after further consultations with the party leadership.
The unanimous election of Shivakumar marks a significant political milestone for the Congress in Karnataka and signals the beginning of a new administrative chapter in the state.