A day before taking oath as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday expressed his gratitude to the Gandhi family for helping shape his political journey and thanked Congress leaders and MPs Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi for placing their faith in him during his stint in the Congress.

Karnataka CM swearing-in LIVE: D.K. Shivakumar to be sworn in as Karnataka CM

On X, Mr. Shivakumar said, “The Gandhi family has played a defining role in my political journey, not merely through leadership but through the faith they placed in me at different stages of my life.”

Further, he said, “As someone who began as a grassroots worker and has been entrusted today with the responsibility of leading Karnataka, I remain profoundly grateful for their trust and encouragement. Under their leadership and with the blessings of the people of Karnataka, I will continue to work with sincerity and commitment to build a progressive, inclusive and prosperous Karnataka that reflects the values we collectively stand for.”

The KPCC president joined the Congress and contested the Assembly elections when Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister in 1985. “I often reflect on Rajiv Gandhi avaru, who saw potential in a young worker even before I could see it in myself. His encouragement gave him the confidence to dream bigger and dedicate himself to public service,” Mr. Shivakumar said.

Recalling Ms. Sonia Gandhi’s visit to Tihar Jail in Delhi when Mr. Shivakumar was imprisoned in the alleged money laundering case, he wrote, “Sonia Gandhi avaru taught me another important lesson in leadership. True leaders do not stand by you only during moments of success; they stand beside you during your most difficult times.”

In the tussle for the top post, Ms. Sonia Gandhi apparently supported Mr. Shivakumar.

The CM-designate also thanked Mr. Gandhi and said, “Rahul Gandhi avaru has been a constant source of guidance and inspiration. His willingness to listen, his conviction in democratic values, and his vision for a more inclusive and compassionate India continue to motivate leaders like me.”

On the Wayanad MP, Mr. Shivakumar said, “Priyanka Gandhi avaru has always been approachable, warm, and encouragin.”

Mr. Shivakumar will take oath as the Chief Minister along with some members of the Council of Ministers at 4.05 p.m. on June 3 at the Lok Bhavan.