Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday firmly dismissed speculation about a power-sharing arrangement in the state, asserting that he has never claimed his tenure would be limited to two-and-a-half years and that he expects to complete a full five-year term.
Speaking during a debate in the Assembly on the development of North Karnataka, Siddaramaiah responded to questions from BJP legislators on whether the government&rsquo;s promises to the region would be fulfilled under his leadership.
&ldquo;I am confident that the high command will allow me to complete five years&rsquo; term,&rdquo; he said. At the same time, he added, &ldquo;I feel that the high command is on my side, but I will abide by the high command&rsquo;s decision.&rdquo;
His remarks come amid renewed political chatter after the Congress government crossed the halfway mark of its five-year tenure last month, triggering speculation about a possible leadership change in the state.
Addressing pointed questions from the opposition about his political future, Siddaramaiah remained unequivocal. When asked whether he would continue as Chief Minister in the coming years, he replied, &ldquo;I am the Chief Minister. If the high command decides, I will be the Chief Minister in future as well.&rdquo;
The controversy around an alleged rotational leadership agreement between Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar also resurfaced during the discussion. Rejecting the claim, Siddaramaiah said, &ldquo;I never said that I will be the Chief Minister for two-and-half years.&rdquo;
BJP MLA V Sunil Kumar pressed the Chief Minister to clarify his future, saying the opposition wanted assurances that the promises made to North Karnataka would be implemented. Siddaramaiah responded firmly, &ldquo;I will remain the Chief Minister in future as well.&rdquo;
He also reminded the opposition of past leadership changes in the BJP, referring to former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, who had promised a full term but stepped down before completing it.
Taking a sharp dig at the BJP, Siddaramaiah remarked, &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have anyone to direct us. We are the producer, director and actor, whereas you have a director.&rdquo;
Earlier this month, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar had also played down speculation of political manoeuvring, denying that a recent dinner meeting had any political significance and insisting there was &ldquo;no other politics&rdquo; involved.

Siddaramaiah rules out half-term CM arrangement

Karnataka CM says he never agreed to 2.5-year formula, confident of full five-year term

Siddaramaiah rules out half-term CM arrangement

Karnataka CM says he never agreed to 2.5-year formula, confident of full five-year term

December 19, 2025 | 18:52 IST