KALABURAGI — The Congress party tightened its grip on local governance Saturday as voters in the Kalaburagi City Corporation elected its candidates to both top positions, delivering a clear mandate for the party's 24th term leading the civic body.

Key facts

  • Ajmal Ahmed Gola elected Mayor with 35 votes
  • Farhanaz Khusro Jahagirdar elected Deputy Mayor with 35 votes
  • BJP candidates received 29 votes each
  • Simple majority required: 33 votes in 55-member corporation

Behind the Unified Front

The election followed careful negotiations within Congress ranks, where multiple councillors had expressed interest in the Mayor's post. Former Mayor Syed Ahmed and Ali Khan, brother of former Minister Rahim Khan, were among those initially vying for the position alongside Mr. Gola.

District in-charge Minister Priyank Kharge led consultations with Congress councillors, working alongside MP Radhakrishna Doddamani and MLAs Kaneez Fatima and Allamprabhu Patil. These discussions proved crucial in building consensus and presenting a united front when votes were cast.

Election Dynamics

Regional Commissioner Zaheera Naseem presided over the election process, which had been rescheduled from August 7 due to unforeseen circumstances. The atmosphere in the corporation building felt charged as councillors cast their ballots.

Interestingly, both winning candidates represent wards within the Kalaburagi North Assembly constituency—a geographical concentration that speaks to the party's strategic positioning.

"My immediate focus will be on improving garbage disposal and drinking water supply, upgrading roads, and strengthening property tax collection," Mr. Gola told reporters after his victory.

Opposition Coordination Falters

Despite their alliance at the state level, BJP and JD(S) councillors failed to coordinate effectively during the corporation election. The lack of coordination likely contributed to their candidates falling short of the required majority.

The presence of multiple MLAs and MLCs during the voting process underscored the election's significance for all parties involved. For Congress, the victory represents both consolidation of power and a renewed mandate to address civic challenges in the coming term.