Former Karnataka CM Sadananda Gowda Announces Retirement From Politics

Sadananda Gowda's exit coincides with reported discontent over not being renominated and his indirect criticism directed at certain party leaders, though no names were specified.

Earlier, Sadananda Gowda had declared his intention to step away from electoral politics only to reconsider due to pressure to run for election once again.

Source : Facebook/SadanandaGowda

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Union Minister Sadananda Gowda announced his decision to step away from politics on Thursday. Gowda sparked rumours of potential independent candidacy or joining the Congress, leading to speculation about his future plans.

Gowda, who previously served as the President of the Karnataka BJP, held a press conference on Thursday and announced his decision to quit politics.

BJP leader and former Karnataka CM D.V. Sadananda Gowda in a press conference in Bengaluru, said, "I am upset with BJP as the election ticket (from Bangalore North seat) has been given to someone else in my place. Yes, I was invited to join the Congress party, but I will not join the Congress party...Narendra Modi should become Prime Minister again."

BJP leader and former Karnataka CM D.V. Sadananda Gowda holds a press conference in Bengaluru, he says, "I am upset with BJP as the election ticket (from Bangalore North seat) has been given to someone else in my place. Yes, I was invited to join the Congress party, but I will… pic.twitter.com/uhs9fRa6wQ

— ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2024

His exit coincides with reported discontent over not being renominated and his indirect criticism directed at certain party leaders, though no names were specified.

Previously, Sadananda Gowda had declared his intention to step away from electoral politics only to reconsider due to pressure to run for election once again. Notably, Gowda, a member of the Vokkaliga community in Karnataka, held discussions with leaders of the 'Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha' on Tuesday.

"Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha President and all its office bearers had sought an appointment to meet me, wanting to talk to me, but I said I myself will come to meet them. They have shared certain things with me. I don't want to divulge things now. I have called a press meet tomorrow, I will share all matters there", Gowda said after the meeting, as per PTI.