Karnataka Congress president DK Shivakumar is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka on Sunday, senior party leader and former minister HK Patil announced on Friday. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, with top Congress leaders expected to attend.
Leadership Transition
The decision comes after weeks of speculation over the successor to outgoing Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, whose resignation was accepted by the Governor earlier this week. Shivakumar, a prominent Vokkaliga leader from the Ramanagara district, has been a key figure in the Congress party's Karnataka unit and played a crucial role in the party's recent electoral successes.
Party Unity and Strategy
HK Patil, who is also a member of the Congress Working Committee, stated that the party has unanimously chosen Shivakumar for the top post. "The high command has decided, and all MLAs are united behind this decision," Patil said. He added that the swearing-in would mark a new chapter for Karnataka under Congress leadership.
Shivakumar's elevation is seen as a strategic move to consolidate the party's position in the state, especially among the Vokkaliga community, which has traditionally been a stronghold of the Janata Dal (Secular). The Congress aims to strengthen its base ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Reactions and Preparations
Supporters of Shivakumar have begun celebrations across the state, with party workers distributing sweets and bursting crackers. Security arrangements at the Kanteerava Stadium are being tightened, and a grand ceremony is being planned, with thousands of party workers expected to participate.
Meanwhile, outgoing CM Bommai expressed his best wishes to Shivakumar, saying, "I congratulate him and hope he serves the people of Karnataka with dedication." The transition of power is expected to be smooth, with the Congress party already in touch with the Governor's office for the formalities.
Shivakumar, a four-time MLA and former minister, has held several portfolios including Energy, Tourism, and Municipal Administration. Known for his organizational skills, he has been instrumental in managing the party's affairs in the state. His swearing-in will end the nearly four-year rule of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka.
