Karnataka Set for Leadership Change: Siddaramaiah Likely to Resign, DK Shivakumar Poised to Become Chief Minister
Bengaluru, May 27, 2026: In a major political development that could reshape Congress politics in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to resign from his post as early as Thursday, with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (popularly known as DK) emerging as the strong favourite to take over as the next Chief Minister.
According to multiple sources across national and regional media, the Congress high command — including Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge — has backed the transition following marathon meetings in Delhi on Tuesday. Siddaramaiah, who has been at the helm since the Congress victory in the 2023 Assembly elections, is reportedly being offered a Rajya Sabha seat or a prominent national role, possibly related to backward classes welfare.
The move appears to be aimed at resolving the long-standing power tussle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, which has simmered since the party came to power. Sources indicate that a Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting could be convened as soon as Thursday evening or Friday to formally elect DK Shivakumar as the leader.
Background of the Power Shift
Siddaramaiah (78), a veteran leader with strong support among the AHINDA (Alpasankhyataru, Hindulidavaru, and Dalitaru) communities, has been Karnataka’s longest-serving Chief Minister in recent times. His government has been credited with implementing several welfare schemes, including the popular ‘Guarantee’ programmes. However, internal equations and the completion of roughly half the term appear to have prompted the high command to engineer a smooth leadership change.
DK Shivakumar, a powerful Vokkaliga leader from Old Mysore region and current KPCC President, has been a key organisational force for the party. He is expected to resign from the KPCC chief post once elevated, with senior minister Satish Jarkiholi among the frontrunners to replace him. Shivakumar’s elevation is seen by many as a move to consolidate Vokkaliga support and project a more aggressive, younger face ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
Reactions and Implications
While the Congress high command has maintained a veil of secrecy, several party leaders have hinted at the impending change. The development comes despite some earlier denials from senior leaders like KC Venugopal.
Political observers believe the transition could help end internal bickering but may also pose challenges in balancing caste equations, particularly retaining the support of backward classes and Dalit communities that formed the backbone of Siddaramaiah’s popularity.
As of now, Siddaramaiah is expected to host a final cabinet breakfast meeting before formally tendering his resignation to the Governor.
This story is developing rapidly. Further clarity is expected in the next 24-48 hours as key players return to Bengaluru and formal processes begin.
