‘Take everyone along’: Sonia Gandhi’s advice to DK Shivakumar in phone call ahead of his swearing-in ceremony

Ahead of DK Shivakumar’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled to be held later today, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday spoke to the Karnataka Chief Minister-designate to extend her best wishes.

During their conversation, Gandhi advised Shivakumar to take everyone along as he prepares to assume the top post.

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According to a statement shared by Shivakumar’s office, Sonia Gandhi also expressed full confidence in his ability to lead Karnataka successfully.

“Take everyone along. I have immense confidence that you will lead Karnataka successfully. Discharge your new responsibilities effectively and continue to achieve greater success,” Sonia Gandhi told the Chief Minister-designate.

Shivakumar thanked the former Congress president for her guidance and good wishes as he prepares to assume office.

The phone call came hours before Shivakumar’s oath-taking as the Chief Minister of Karnataka along with members of his Council of Ministers in Bengaluru.

Speaking to the media, Shivakumar said, “Sonia Gandhi ji called me this morning and conveyed her greetings. She has reposed confidence in me for a long time. I will strive to carry forward the good work.”

He further said, “I will continue to seek the guidance of senior leaders in Karnataka politics, who have made significant contributions to the people of the state.”

Earlier in the day, Shivakumar, before heading to the Lok Bhavan for the swearing-in ceremony, sought the blessings of his mother, Gowramma. He touched her feet and spent some time with her in a light-hearted conversation.

Shivakumar is replacing Siddaramaiah as the Chief Minister of Karnataka. The latter was asked by the party to step down after months of intense leadership tussle between the two leaders.

The former Karnataka CM has been appointed as the member of the Congress Working Committee, the party’s highest decision-making body.