In the ongoing debate about who will be the next Chief Minister of Karnataka, Congress MP from Chikkodi, Priyanka Jarkiholi, made a prediction on Sunday, October 13, 2024. She said that her father, Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Satish Jarkiholi, will be a contender for the Chief Minister’s position after 2028.

Priyanka clarified that the current Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, will complete his term until the next general elections, putting to rest any speculations about an immediate replacement. Speaking to reporters in Belagavi, Priyanka said, “Five years ago, my father had said that he would run for the CM post after 10 years, and this period will end in 2028. He has the ability to lead the government and deserves the role.”

Advice to Her Father: Support Siddaramaiah

Priyanka also mentioned that she advised her father to not create any trouble for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who is already facing many challenges. She urged him to stand by Siddaramaiah during this crucial time. She added that her father, Satish Jarkiholi, who is a four-time MLA from the Yamakanamaradi constituency and a former member of the Legislative Council, has been a loyal supporter of Siddaramaiah.

Concerns Raised by KC Venugopal About Jarkiholi’s Meetings

It’s important to note that the MUDA (Mysore Urban Development Authority) site allotment issue has led to questions about who will succeed Siddaramaiah. Recently, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar met with Siddaramaiah at his residence, and AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal was also present. Venugopal expressed concerns about some ministers holding separate meetings, which was seen as an attempt to weaken Siddaramaiah’s leadership. Venugopal was likely referring to meetings organized by Satish Jarkiholi.

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Siddaramaiah’s First Choice for CM: Jarkiholi?

Political analysts believe that when the time comes for Siddaramaiah to step down, it is common for a leader to recommend a loyalist for the position. In this case, Satish Jarkiholi might be Siddaramaiah’s first choice. Sources suggest that Jarkiholi has the support of around 40 MLAs, mainly from Dalit and backward communities. His family includes three MLAs, one MP, one MLC, and many political relatives who have significant influence in North Karnataka.

Jarkiholi’s Support and Recent Meetings

Following speculations about Siddaramaiah’s term, Satish Jarkiholi recently met with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi. He also met with a group of 40 MLAs from Dalit and backward communities. His recent visit to Mysuru to consult with cabinet colleagues has sparked further discussions about his ambitions to become the next CM. In Belagavi, his supporters held public events, and posters were displayed, declaring him as the future CM.

BJP President’s Visit Fuels Speculation

Last week, BJP state president BY Vijayendra’s visit to Jarkiholi’s residence in Bengaluru stirred up more political excitement, with rumors that if Jarkiholi takes over the government before Siddaramaiah completes his term, the BJP might support him.

Jarkiholi’s Clarification

Satish Jarkiholi reaffirmed his loyalty to Siddaramaiah, stating that he has no plans to take over the CM’s seat before 2028. He said, “I won’t snatch my mentor’s seat. He will remain in the position until the end of his term, and I will try for the post after 2028.”