As KPCC chief, he steered the Congress to a resounding victory in the 2023 assembly polls, employing aggressive organisational rebuilding, micro-level booth management and crisis-handling strategies. His role in safeguarding Congress MLAs in Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra during political turbulence earned him a national reputation as the party’s most reliable shield.

Some of the leaders describe him as a master at reading complex political situations, managing crises and building alliances which makes him a pivotal figure in Karnataka’s power dynamics.

“Shivakumar has a remarkable skill to mobilise party workers, strengthen grassroot networks and maintain unity in the party even during critical moments,” they add.

In governance, Shivakumar has sponsored several large-scale initiatives. As minister for water resources, he pushed major irrigation and drinking-water projects including the Yettinahole Drinking Water Project, Cauvery Phase-V expansion, and irrigation network expansion across Karnataka. As Bengaluru development minister, he is currently leading India’s first city tunnel mobility network, fixing over 2,700 potholes, strengthening storm-water systems to prevent flooding, and facilitating over 4,400 EV charging stations, positioning Bengaluru as India’s EV capital.

Today, he stands as one of Karnataka’s most prominent political figures—his journey defined by persistence, loyalty and a consistent ability to convert challenges into stepping stones. According to sources, momentum is building among a section of party legislators rallying behind him, with some travelling to Delhi to press for a change of guard. Several senior leaders have indicated they would support his elevation if the high command approves.

With political developments accelerating, Shivakumar has emerged as the leading contender for the Chief Minister’s post, backed both by a faction of the state legislature party and influential voices in Delhi. But his ascension rests entirely on the decision of the party’s top leadership, mainly Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge.