DK Shivakumar thanks the Gandhi family for his political rise
File photo of Karnataka Chief Ministerial candidate DK shivakumar with Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi. | Photo credit: file photo
A day before being sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar on Tuesday expressed his gratitude to the Gandhi family for helping shape his political journey and thanked Congress leaders and MPs Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi for reposing faith in him during his tenure in the Congress.
On X, Mr. Shivakumar said, “The Gandhi family has played a defining role in my political journey, not only through leadership but also through the faith they have placed in me at various stages of my life.”
He further said, “As someone who started as a local worker and today has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading Karnataka, I remain deeply grateful for their trust and encouragement. Under their guidance and with the blessings of the people of Karnataka, I will continue to work with sincerity and determination to build a progressive, inclusive and prosperous collective Karnataka that reflects our values.”
The KPCC president joined the Congress and contested the Assembly elections when Rajiv Gandhi was prime minister in 1985. “I often think of Rajiv Gandhi the avar who saw the potential in a young worker even before I saw it in myself. His encouragement gave him the confidence to dream bigger and engage in public service,” said Shivakumar.
Recalling Mrs Sonia Gandhi’s visit to Delhi’s Tihar Jail, when Mr Shivakumar was incarcerated in an alleged money laundering case, he wrote: “Sonia Gandhi avaru taught me another important lesson in leadership. True leaders don’t just stand by you in your moments of success; they stand by you in your toughest times.”
In the race for the top post, Mrs Sonia Gandhi was clearly backing Mr Shivakumar.
The CM-designate also thanked Mr. Gandhi and said, “Rahul Gandhi avaru has been a constant source of guidance and inspiration. His willingness to listen, his belief in democratic values and his vision of a more inclusive and compassionate India continue to motivate leaders like me.”
About the Wayanad MP, Mr. Shivakumar said, “Priyanka Gandhi avaru was always approachable, warm and encouraging.”
Mr. Shivakumar will be sworn in as the Chief Minister along with some members of the Council of Ministers at 4:05 pm on June 3 at the Lok Bhavan.
Published – 02 Jun 2026 19:05 IST