Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday firmly shut down speculation suggesting that Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi could be projected as the party’s prime ministerial face, making it clear that Rahul Gandhi remains the undisputed leader for him and the Congress cadre.

Speaking to the media in Delhi, Shivakumar said he was unaware of any internal debate on the issue and dismissed the discussion as baseless. “My leader is the AICC president, and the Leader of Opposition is Rahul Gandhi. For us, Rahul Gandhi is the leader,” he stated. He also underlined that Priyanka Gandhi’s political focus is aligned with strengthening her brother’s leadership.

Shivakumar asserted that there is no ambition from Priyanka Gandhi’s side to seek the top post. “Her only goal is to see Rahul Gandhi become the Prime Minister of this country,” he said, brushing aside the political chatter.

The speculation gained traction after Priyanka Gandhi’s husband, Robert Vadra, publicly praised her leadership qualities and hinted that she could one day take on a bigger national role. Vadra had said Priyanka Gandhi draws inspiration from former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, as well as Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, and described her political journey as one rooted in empathy and grassroots connection.

Separately, DK Shivakumar also addressed rumours of a possible leadership change in Karnataka, categorically denying any unrest within the state Congress unit. He said he is fully satisfied in his current role and that reports of internal meetings or power-sharing discussions exist only in media narratives.

“I am not meeting anyone in the high command. I am happy as Deputy Chief Minister and proud to work as a party worker,” Shivakumar said, adding that leadership decisions rest entirely with the Congress organisation.