Karnataka Minister Satish Jarkiholi Reaffirms 2028 CM Ambitions Amid Congress Gag Order
Karnataka Minister Satish Jarkiholi has restated that he doesn’t anticipate assuming the role of Chief Minister during the current tenure of the Congress-led government in the state. He has affirmed his intention to vie for the top post in 2028, stating, “I don’t see an opportunity in this tenure. My claim is for 2028, and it’s up to other leaders to choose their preferred year. My focus remains on 2028.” These remarks came in the wake of the Congress party’s enforcement of a gag order, prohibiting members from discussing party operations, government matters, or potential leadership changes.
The directive extends to all party members, including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy Shivakumar, and it restricts discussions regarding the party’s functioning, government issues, or upcoming leadership changes beyond the next two-and-a-half years. This directive emerged from a breakfast meeting convened by Siddaramaiah at his residence on Sunday.
It’s worth noting that Satish Jarkiholi was conspicuously absent from the breakfast meeting, citing illness as the reason for his non-participation.
On the same day, the Public Works Department (PWD) Minister highlighted the collective desire of various communities, including Dalits, to see one of their leaders assume the position of Chief Minister in Karnataka. He emphasized that the final decision on this matter rests with the Congress high command.
Satish Jarkiholi, who belongs to the Valmiki (ST) community, also serves as the Working President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee. While acknowledging the Dalit community’s aspiration for a Chief Minister from their ranks, the Minister underscored that the ultimate authority to determine the outcome of this issue lies within the party.
