Talks of a power tussle in Karnataka’s Congress government resurfaced after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s financial advisor Basavaraj Rayareddy said he believes Siddaramaiah will complete his five-year term, while also hinting at his own aspirations for the top post.

Speaking to reporters, Rayareddy said, “I don’t think Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be replaced. He will complete his full five-year term. We have elected him for five years. Of course, the party high command can decide, it is up to them.”

When asked about speculation that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar may take over as Chief Minister in November, Rayareddy responded light-heartedly, “Maybe, or maybe you want me also? I am not less, I am senior to many of these people. I have been elected since 1985. Who knows? Anybody can become Chief Minister.”

However, Rayareddy maintained that Siddaramaiah would continue as Chief Minister, citing his governance and fiscal discipline. “He is giving very good administration, we have strong financial discipline and a pro-people administration. Of course, there are issues, but those have been caused by previous governments, and they have to be rectified,” he said.

Rayareddy’s remarks come amid persistent chatter within the Congress over the leadership-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, with sections speculating a possible change midway through the government’s tenure.

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