After over five years as KPCC president, D K Shivakumar hints at stepping down, saying leadership shouldn’t be permanent. His remarks come amid reshuffle talks and growing internal competition.

D K Shivakumar Hints at Stepping Down as KPCC President, Says Leadership Shouldn’t Be Permanent

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has suggested he may soon step down as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, signaling a shift within the state unit of the party. Speaking at an event in Bengaluru on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he said leadership roles should not be held indefinitely.

“I cannot hold the post permanently. It has already been 5.5 years. In March, it will be six years. Others should be given an opportunity,” he said, adding that his departure would not mark disengagement from the party. “I will still be in leadership and at the frontline,” he assured. Shivakumar also vowed to complete the construction of 100 new party offices before stepping aside.

His comments come amid speculation of a cabinet reshuffle and reports of an internal power-sharing arrangement with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah—dubbed the “November revolution” by party insiders. Despite dismissing resignation rumours last week as a “disciplined soldier” of the Congress, his latest remarks indicate mounting pressure from within.

Political Analysis Shivakumar’s statement reflects intensifying leadership jockeying within the Karnataka Congress. Names like PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi and former minister KN Rajanna—seen as close to Siddaramaiah—are already being floated as possible replacements. The timing follows Siddaramaiah’s recent meeting with Rahul Gandhi, further fueling speculation over strategic realignments.

Local analysts say the move could be aimed at balancing internal power blocs and avoiding factional rifts ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. While Shivakumar signals readiness to shift roles, his assurance of remaining “at the frontline” suggests he is positioning himself for a broader leadership stake.

For Congress in Karnataka, this could mark the beginning of a leadership reset—not a retreat.