Former Karnataka chief minister and senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Sunday said he will not contest the 2028 Karnataka assembly elections, drawing a line under speculation over another run for office.

In a post on X, he said the decision was based on his age, his health, and his view that politics had become increasingly corrupt.

He also made clear that the move does not amount to a retreat from public life, saying he would continue to remain engaged with people’s concerns.

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A decision brewed over many seasons

Siddaramaiah’s post framed the decision in personal and political terms.

He wrote, “I will not contest in the 2028 assembly elections,” and said, “The political field has become corrupted today.” He added that he would continue to be a voice for people’s hardships and joys, even if he were no longer seeking an electoral mandate.

Time, the most persuasive counsellor

The veteran leader also pointed to the passage of time in his political career. He said he was 79 now and would be 81 or 82 by the next assembly election, while also noting that his health was “not as robust as it used to be.”

He added that 2028 would mark “50 years in my political life” and that he had seen “both defeats and victories” since beginning his political journey in 1978 as a taluk board member.

People from his Varuna constituency had been urging him to contest again, but he had decided against fighting any future elections.

The road ahead, minus one familiar face

The announcement comes with Karnataka’s next assembly election scheduled for May 2028.

The Congress returned to power in the state in 2023 with 135 seats in the 224-member assembly, its first statewide victory since 1989.

Even as Siddaramaiah ruled out another contest, he said he would stay active in politics and continue speaking for people’s concerns, leaving his role in Karnataka’s public life intact even as he steps away from the ballot.

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FAQs

Q1: Why did Siddaramaiah say he will not contest the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections?

Siddaramaiah said he decided not to contest because of his age, health, and what he described as the increasing corruption in politics.

Q2: Will Siddaramaiah retire from politics after skipping the 2028 elections?

No, Siddaramaiah said he will remain active in public life and continue working for people’s welfare despite not contesting the 2028 Assembly polls.