‘Why Only Two Years?’ CM DK Shivakumar Sets 2028 Target, Signals Long-Term Leadership Ambition
Kanakapura (Bengaluru), June 8: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has made his political ambitions clear, declaring that his goal is not merely to serve as Chief Minister for the next two years but to lead the Congress into the 2028 Assembly elections and return to power under his own leadership.
Speaking during his gratitude tour across Kanakapura constituency, Shivakumar said his political journey was far from over and that he was already looking ahead to the next electoral battle.
“Should I remain Chief Minister for only two years? With your blessings, we must win again in 2028. My goal is 2028, and I believe the next election will be fought under my leadership,” Shivakumar told supporters amid loud cheers.
Grand Welcome During Kanakapura Gratitude Tour
The Chief Minister dedicated an entire day to thanking voters in his home constituency, which played a crucial role in his rise to Karnataka’s top political office.
From early morning until well past midnight, Shivakumar travelled through Harohalli, Tunganikere, T. Begur, Kodihalli, Sathanur and several other villages, receiving a grand welcome from supporters.
Residents showered flowers on the Chief Minister, burst crackers and raised slogans of “DK, DK” as roadshows moved through the constituency.
At Harohalli, supporters even presented him with a giant garland made of garlic, green chillies and dry chillies to ward off the evil eye.
Open Invitation to JDS and BJP Workers
In remarks that could trigger political debate, Shivakumar extended an open invitation to workers of the Janata Dal (Secular) and BJP in Kanakapura.
“Can the BJP or JDS produce another DK Shivakumar in Kanakapura? Ask yourselves honestly. My doors are open not only to Congress workers but also to JDS and BJP workers,” he said.
The Chief Minister asserted that his relationship with the people of the constituency went beyond party lines and that he remained accessible to everyone.
Promises of Sites, Medical College and Local Jobs
Addressing local residents, Shivakumar announced several development commitments for the region.
He promised housing sites for economically weaker families, expansion of educational and healthcare infrastructure and greater employment opportunities for local youth.
The Chief Minister said a new medical college would be established in the region and stressed that industries operating in the area should provide employment opportunities to local residents.
“Every family deserves a roof over its head. We will continue development works, strengthen irrigation projects and ensure local youth get opportunities in industries coming up in the region,” he said.
Concern Over Electoral Roll Revision
Shivakumar also expressed concern over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and urged party workers and voters to remain vigilant.
“You must protect your vote and your voting rights. Every eligible voter should ensure their name remains on the voters’ list,” he said.
Temple Visits and Midnight Public Outreach
As part of the tour, the Chief Minister visited several temples, including the famous Kabbalamma Temple, where he offered special prayers.
He also paid visits to local religious institutions and sought blessings from seers and spiritual leaders.
The gratitude yatra continued until nearly 1 a.m., highlighting Shivakumar’s effort to reconnect with voters who he said had supported and nurtured his political career for more than four decades.
With his remarks on 2028 and his outreach to opposition workers, Shivakumar’s Kanakapura visit has sparked fresh political discussions about the future leadership trajectory of Karnataka Congress and the state’s political landscape.
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