G. Parameshwara | Photo credit: file photo
Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Thursday extended New Year greetings to the people of Karnataka and expressed his ambition to become the Chief Minister in 2026.
Speaking to reporters here, he said, “If the Congress high command takes a decision, I will get political support,” apparently referring to aspirations to become the chief minister.
“I am always an optimist in life. Don’t you have ambitions in your life? When I entered politics, I had ambitions to become an MLA, later a minister and so on. To progress step by step,” said Dr. Parameshwara.
Referring to the current political developments in the state, he said, “You (media persons) are watching the political environment everyday through camera lenses, which seems to indicate that the current political climate is not conducive to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar occupying the coveted post of Chief Minister.”
On Tuesday, the Home Secretary said the Congress high command must decide on the leadership issue before the budget is prepared in February 2026.
Dr. Parameshwara, who was the KPCC chief for a record eight years and also the deputy chief minister, had earlier announced his candidature for the post of chief minister amid speculation of a leadership change in the government.
Mr. Shivakumar is making all efforts to become Chief Minister and hinted that there is a “secret pact” to elevate him to the post of Chief Minister.
A section of Dalit leaders demanded that the high command appoint a person from their community as Chief Minister in case he replaces incumbent Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Published – 01 Jan 2026 20:29 IST
