DK Shivakumar Set to Take Karnataka CM Post on January 6, Claims Congress MLA

Congress MLA H. A. Iqbal Hussain from Ramanagara has publicly claimed a "99 percent chance" that Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar will replace incumbent Siddaramaiah as chief minister on January 6, 2026. Speaking to reporters on December 13, 2025, Hussain reiterated his support for Shivakumar, emphasizing the need to give him an opportunity in the top post. He mentioned alternative dates like January 9 as possibilities, attributing the speculation to widespread discussions within party circles.

Hussain's remarks come amid ongoing internal tensions in the Karnataka Congress over leadership, with factions pushing for a change. As a vocal advocate, he had expressed similar views the previous day, highlighting Shivakumar's contributions. The statements add fuel to rumors of a power-sharing agreement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, which reportedly includes a midterm rotation after the 2023 assembly elections, where Congress secured a strong majority.

In a separate development, Union Minister of State for Railways and BJP MP V. Somanna endorsed state Home Minister G. Parameshwara for the chief minister's role during an event in Tumakuru. Somanna dismissed Shivakumar's prospects as secondary to luck and conduct, reflecting opposition attempts to exploit Congress infighting. Parameshwara, a senior Dalit leader, has been floated as an alternative amid caste dynamics in Karnataka politics.

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The controversy escalates as Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are scheduled to meet Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi in Delhi on December 14, 2025, sources indicate. This meeting could address the leadership tussle and stabilize the government, which has faced criticism over governance issues like corruption allegations and welfare scheme implementation. Political analysts view the developments as critical for Congress unity ahead of future elections.

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