Amid efforts by the Congress leadership in Karnataka to quell the ongoing debate over a change in leadership and the appointment of additional deputy chief ministers, several notable figures continue to bring the issue to the forefront. The latest voice in the conversation is Belagavi Congress MLA Asif Sait, who has advocated for PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi to be appointed as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister for the overall development of the North Karnataka region. Jarkiholi represents the Yamakanmardi constituency in Belagavi district.
Sait, speaking to the media in Belagavi on Saturday, emphasized that he has been calling for Jarkiholi’s elevation to Deputy Chief Minister for the past year without success. He expressed concern that North Karnataka is being neglected in terms of development and believes that appointing Jarkiholi as Deputy Chief Minister would address this issue. “Making Satish Jarkiholi the DyCM would ensure North Karnataka gets its due. He has a lot of concern for all communities and has proven himself to be a leader of all sections,” Sait said.
On the same day, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi commented on the leadership debate, labeling it a “closed chapter.” He stated that there is no need for further discussion on the matter, emphasizing that the decision to replace the Chief Minister lies with the Congress high command. “The matter of replacing the CM is left to the Congress high command and not to anyone on the streets,” Jarkiholi said.
Looking ahead, Jarkiholi announced his intention to contest for the Chief Minister’s post in 2028, during the next Assembly elections in Karnataka. “I will demand the CM post by analyzing the political scenario in 2028… but not now,” he added.