‘Who will get CM’s chair?’ Big question before Congress after victory in K’taka polls

Team Udayavani, May 14, 2023, 10:07 AM IST

Image credit: PTI

Bengaluru: Following the resounding victory of the Congress party in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly elections, the spotlight has shifted to the intense deliberations on who will assume the mantle of Chief Minister. Simultaneously, the BJP finds itself grappling with the question of who will lead the opposition, with several prominent leaders losing their seats in the electoral battle.

Within the Congress, prominent contenders in the race for Chief Minister seem to be former CM Siddaramaiah and KPCC president D.K. Shivakumar. Shivakumar’s with his strong organizational ability has been instrumental in Congress’ electoral success. Siddaramaiah’s significant contribution in securing the support of Kuruba and Muslim voters has boosted his chances.

Amidst challenging times for the party, it was Shivakumar who bravely accepted the daunting task of rebuilding the Congress and dedicated two years of relentless effort towards this goal. His tireless work might earn him recognition and consideration by the party’s high command. However, given the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in a year’s time, Congress leaders may exercise caution and explore a power-sharing arrangement between the two prominent leaders.

A potential scenario could involve Siddaramaiah assuming the role of Chief Minister for the first half of the Assembly’s term, with Shivakumar serving as Deputy Chief Minister, which might satisfy both individuals.

However, complications may arise if Shivakumar insists on becoming the Chief Minister once Siddaramaiah assumes power. In such a case, the Congress high command could present an alternative candidate as a consensus choice.

While prospects for this scenario remain slim, it wouldn’t be surprising if Mallikarjuna Kharge emerged as a compromise candidate acceptable to both factions. Kharge’s nomination is unlikely to face strong opposition from the Shivakumar camp. The final decision on the Chief Minister’s position is expected within the next two days.

Meanwhile, the BJP finds itself contemplating the selection of the leader of the opposition. Basavaraj Bommai appears to be a strong candidate, given his adeptness in parliamentary proceedings, which would be essential in countering the Congress in the legislative assembly. However, criticism surrounding Bommai’s administration being blamed for the party’s crushing defeat might necessitate the BJP to consider other options.

In such a scenario, the BJP loyalists and staunch party members may play a pivotal role in determining the opposition leader. Candidates like Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and V Sunil Kumar emerge as potential choices for the crucial position. Although the BJP currently has limited alternatives, the decision will be crucial in shaping the party’s future course as the principal opposition force.

The coming days are likely to be filled with intense negotiations and deliberations, ultimately shaping the future trajectory of Karnataka’s political landscape.