BELAGAVI: Fresh speculation over a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka intensified on Tuesday after Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi indicated that the Congress high command would soon turn its attention to the state once the CM selection process in Kerala is completed.
Satish said that the Congress top brass in New Delhi is expected to address the ongoing political uncertainty in the state and bring clarity on issues related to power-sharing, cabinet restructuring and leadership coordination.
“The high command will take a final call after the political developments in Kerala. There is a need for clear direction from the party leadership to remove confusion regarding power-sharing arrangements and leadership issues in the state,” he said.
His remarks have once again reignited discussions within Karnataka Congress circles over a possible reshuffle in the Siddaramaiah cabinet and the long-standing speculation surrounding rotational chief ministership. Ever since the Congress formed its government in Karnataka after the 2023 Assembly elections, political discussions over leadership-sharing between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar have continued to dominate the state’s political landscape.
Though the party leadership has repeatedly maintained that there is no immediate question of a leadership change, periodic statements from ministers and legislators have kept the debate alive.
Congress sources suggest that several ministers and MLAs are also pressing for a cabinet reshuffle, as many legislators who played key roles during the Assembly elections are still awaiting ministerial berths. Dissatisfaction among some senior leaders over portfolio allocation and regional representation has further added to the pressure on the party leadership.
Political observers believe that the party leadership is trying to ensure stability in Karnataka, one of the Congress’ most significant southern strongholds, while balancing factional interests within the state unit ahead of future electoral battles.