Sun Mar 02 15:13:08 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Congress MLA Predicts Shivakumar as Chief Minister Before December

**Bengaluru, March 2, 2025** – A strong statement has emerged from the camp of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, fueling ongoing speculation about the state’s leadership. Channagiri Congress MLA Shivaganga Basavaraj confidently predicted that Mr. Shivakumar will become Chief Minister before December.

Mr. Basavaraj, a staunch supporter of Mr. Shivakumar, asserted that the Deputy CM’s hard work and significant contributions to the Congress party’s success in Karnataka entitle him to the top post. He claimed Mr. Shivakumar was instrumental in the election of 70-80 first-time legislators and highlighted his financial investment and dedication to the party. Mr. Basavaraj even went so far as to predict a seven-and-a-half-year tenure for Mr. Shivakumar as Chief Minister.

This declaration comes amidst rumors of Mr. Shivakumar potentially defecting to the BJP and represents the strongest show of support from his camp in recent months. Despite high command intervention and ongoing discussions of a power-sharing agreement, the verbal sparring between supporters of Mr. Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah continues.

Mr. Basavaraj dismissed concerns about the need for BJP support, stating that Mr. Shivakumar’s ascension would be achieved with the support of the Congress’ 140 MLAs. He also criticized Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna, a Siddaramaiah loyalist, for his statements against Mr. Shivakumar, urging the high command to take action. Mr. Rajanna’s criticism stemmed from Mr. Shivakumar’s participation in Mahashivaratri celebrations attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The statement underscores the intense power struggle within the Karnataka Congress, with the future leadership of the state remaining uncertain.

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