Congress MLA Ashok Pattan on Wednesday fuelled speculation about a possible leadership change in Karnataka by stating that there was a strong possibility of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar becoming the next Chief Minister.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Ashok Pattan said there was a “100 per cent possibility” and added that there was a clear expectation within the party regarding Shivakumar’s elevation.
Hinting at a major Cabinet reshuffle if a leadership change takes place, the MLA said around 15 to 20 ministers from the present Cabinet may have to step down to accommodate new faces.
Ashok Pattan also asserted that there was no possibility of voting during a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting and claimed that any new leader would be elected unanimously.
The remarks have intensified political discussions in Karnataka amid ongoing speculation over a possible change in leadership within the ruling Indian National Congress government.
