Karnataka Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Friday rekindled the ongoing tussle over the post of Chief Minister. He cited former Congress President Sonia Gandhi’s decision to step down as Prime Minister in 2004. Speaking at a government event in Bengaluru, Shivakumar praised Sonia Gandhi for giving priority to the party and the nation rather than personal power. He highlighted his role in recommending Manmohan Singh for the post of Prime Minister despite being called upon by the then President APJ Abdul Kalam.
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Shivkumar said that Sonia Gandhi remained Congress President for 20 years. He also renounced power… Abdul Kalam had asked him to become the next Prime Minister, but he refused and described Manmohan Singh as a leader who would develop the country. Praising Sonia Gandhi, Shivakumar also addressed the voters of the state and urged them to continue supporting the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government and bless the party in the 2028 assembly elections.
This comment comes amid growing tension between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar over the tenure of the Chief Minister. Shivakumar’s comment also assumes significance as it comes just a day before a crucial meeting in Delhi – which is expected to be attended by Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and party national president Mallikarjun Kharge – where power-sharing in Karnataka will be discussed and a breakthrough is expected to end the ongoing political dispute.
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Shivakumar concluded his address by calling for continued public support for the government and openly supporting the continuation of the Siddaramaiah-led government. He said that your blessings remain upon us. May your blessings remain on the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah. Congress will make every possible effort to bring light in your life.