DK Shivakumar is preparing to be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Karnataka on June 3, 2026 [1].
The transition marks a significant shift in the state's Congress leadership, aimed at maintaining party unity through a structured power handover.
Shivakumar and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appeared together on stage at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru to signal a smooth transition [1, 2]. The appearance took place in the presence of senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi [1, 3]. This public display of cooperation follows the resignation of Siddaramaiah, who is 77 years old [4].
Reports indicate that the leadership change aligns with a rotational formula proposed by Rahul Gandhi, which suggests a two-and-a-half-year term for the state's chief ministers [5]. This arrangement is designed to balance internal party dynamics and resolve long-standing leadership tensions within the Karnataka Congress.
Shivakumar is expected to lead a new ministerial team. An initial announcement indicates that 13 MLAs are likely to take the oath of office alongside the new Chief Minister [1]. Other reports confirm the initial ministerial team size is 13 members [4].
While some reports previously suggested Siddaramaiah had been summoned to Delhi for meetings, the events at Lok Bhavan confirm he has stepped down to make way for Shivakumar [1, 4].
“DK Shivakumar is preparing to be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Karnataka.”
The transition from Siddaramaiah to Shivakumar represents the implementation of a strategic power-sharing agreement within the Karnataka Congress. By adopting a rotational leadership model, the party seeks to mitigate internal rivalry and stabilize its administration, ensuring that key factions remain invested in the government's success.
