Karnataka BJP President, B Y Vijayendra, has responded to accusations of being a product of "dynasty politics" by emphasizing that his appointment is not due to his father's stature but rather his own merit, performance, and commitment to the party. He asserts that his primary goal as party president is to strengthen the BJP's presence across Karnataka, particularly focusing on regions like old Mysuru and Hyderabad (Kalyana) Karnataka.
Vijayendra clarifies that his selection as party president was not influenced by his father, B S Yediyurappa, but was made by the national leadership after careful consideration following the assembly elections. He highlights that discussions around his appointment should focus on his dedication to the party over the past 12 years and not just on his familial connection to Yediyurappa. Moreover, he aims to expand and consolidate the party's base pan-Karnataka, aiming beyond just electoral victories to a broader party growth strategy.
When addressing the issue of leadership transition in the party post Yediyurappa's era, Vijayendra acknowledges the challenge of filling the veteran leader's shoes but underscores the importance of nurturing young leaders and promoting collective leadership within the state BJP. He emphasizes the need to groom new talent and ensure that the party continues to grow and evolve even in the absence of Yediyurappa's undisputed leadership. Vijayendra also addresses internal party dissent, stating that the high command will handle actions against senior leaders like K S Eshwarappa, who have rebelled against the party, emphasizing that candidate selection was based on various factors decided by the national leadership and not on individual preferences.