BENGALURU: Cooperation minister KN Rajanna, a staunch loyalist of CM Siddaramaiah, Friday suggested deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar should aim to lead Congress to victory in the next assembly elections and serve as CM for a full five years, instead of focusing on securing the top post during the remaining tenure of the current govt.
Rajanna's remarks come amid speculation of a seat-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar under a ‘rotational chief minister' formula.
"As a human being, the desire for power is natural," Rajanna said. "Shivakumar's interest in the CM post is not wrong. The 2023 election was led by Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, and people blessed us (Congress)."
However, emphasising the party high command's authority, he said, "The CM is the legislature party leader, and the high command has the power to make changes. My suggestion to Shivakumar is why fight for two-and-half years now. Lead the party to victory in the next elections and serve as CM for a full five years. None will object."
On being asked if he would serve in Shivakumar's cabinet — should there be one — Rajanna said he does not plan to contest elections again. He also dismissed allegations by Union minister HD Kumaraswamy of 60% corruption in the Congress govt, questioning the JD(S) leader's credibility.
"Ask Kumaraswamy how much his percentage is. Is he a Satya Harishchandra?" Rajanna said, asserting that political corruption is widespread. He candidly said, "The truth cannot always be spoken."
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