Will abide by BJP high command decision, says CM Yediyurappa amid leadership change row

The BJP government has planned a programme to highlight its 2-year achievement on July 26

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa. Credit: PTI File Photo

Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Thursday dropped, by far, the biggest hint about spending his last days in office, saying he was ready to obey the high command’s decision that he is expecting on July 25.

“From July 26, I will start my work,” he said, vowing to strengthen the BJP and bring the party back to power.

He said he offered to resign two months ago. “I will continue as CM as long as they want me to,” Yediyurappa said.

Asked about his successor, he said it was up to the high command. “I have not and will not recommend anyone. There is no need for me to do that.”

On July 26, there is a special programme to mark the completion of two years of the Yediyurappa government. A handbook highlighting the government’s achievements will be released. “After participating in the programme, it is my responsibility to follow our [BJP] national president’s direction,” Yediyurappa said.

Also read: Amid talk about CM Yediyurappa's exit, guessing game on successor gains traction

The 78-year-old said he was the only leader in the BJP allowed to continue in power despite crossing the 75-year age limit. “National leaders have special affection towards me. Nobody above 75 is given any position. But, appreciating the work done by Yediyurappa, PM Modi, BJP national president J P Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah have allowed me to continue till 78-79 years,” he said, requesting his supporters to cooperate.

Yediyurappa is scheduled to inspect some road works in Bengaluru on Friday. “I’ll do my duty till the last minute,” he said. “Whether or not I am in power, I have decided to tour the state with the aim of strengthening the party’s organisation and bring the BJP to power,” he said.

On visits by seers over the last two days, Yediyurappa said he received support from all communities. “Nobody has received such support and blessings in the past. I will never forget this.”

Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai and Revenue Minister R Ashoka, Yediyurappa’s aides, were neutral and said the high command’s decision will be final. “We don’t know what has been decided; only Yediyurappa and Nadda know. Whatever it is, we will abide by the decision,” Ashoka said.

Asked why the dinner for MLAs was cancelled, Bommai said: “Due to Covid and instructions from the high command, it has been postponed."

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