Kejriwal’s likely resignation seems to be a strategic move in light of his ongoing legal battles.And yet, he has set the stage for a dramatic return, vowing to reclaim the chief minister’s office only after being “certified honest” by the people in the upcoming elections.
Some familiar names are being seen as his potential replacement: his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, and prominent ministers like Atishi and Gopal Rai. However, Kejriwal’s refusal to nominate a successor has only fueled more conjecture, leaving many wondering who will lead the AAP as Delhi approaches a critical electoral season.
Wife Sunita, Atishi among top contenders
With Kejriwal proposing to step aside temporarily, there has been a widespread buzz around the names of his potential successors. One name stands out, who played a pivotal role to keep AAP afloat after Delhi CM’s arrest, Sunita Kejriwal.
A former Indian Revenue Services (IRS) officer, Sunita is no stranger to the politics of the state. She led the party’s campaign efforts, helping to mobilise AAP’s base across Delhi, Gujarat, and Haryana. Her administrative experience and proximity to Kejriwal give her a unique edge.
Among the AAP ranks, minister Atishi is another contender who might replace Kejriwal. Taking over as Delhi’s education minister after Sisodia’s arrest, Atishi’s track record in AAP makes her a top contender. She has handled some of the government’s most critical portfolios—education, finance, PWD—and has been an important spokesperson for the party. Her understanding of governance and her close association with Kejriwal could make her a front-runner in the race.
Gopal Rai, a seasoned leader with a long-standing role in the party, is considered another viable option. Known for his experience and loyalty to AAP since its inception, Rai’s appointment could signal a steady hand at the helm, especially as Delhi braces for a tight electoral contest.
Kailash Gahlot, another trusted minister, is also in the conversation, holding key portfolios like transport and revenue. However, with elections just months away, the party might lean toward someone who can connect with broader demographics. Saurabh Bharjwaj, who holds important posts in Delhi government, is also being seen as a contender for the top post in Delhi government.
The AAP may even consider an unconventional candidate, with talks of a Dalit or Muslim legislator taking over the reins. This could help the party consolidate votes in constituencies where minority groups hold significant sway—an important factor in the upcoming Delhi assembly elections.
Kejriwal, while addressing the party workers at AAP’s headquarters, hinted that a decision on his replacement would be made soon in consultation with party MLAs.
Why Kejriwal’s decision to resign ain’t that surprising
The Supreme Court granted bail to Arvind Kejriwal on Friday, subject to several conditions. The most notable among these is a restriction that prohibits him from entering the chief minister’s office or signing official documents “unless absolutely necessary to obtain the lieutenant governor’s sanctions.” He has also been forbidden from entering the Delhi secretariat.
Following the announcement of his decision, Kejriwal called for early elections in the capital. He said, “The elections are supposed to be held in February. I demand elections be held in November with Maharashtra elections. Till elections are held, someone else from the party will be the chief minister.”
The Delhi Assembly elections are slated to take place in February 2024, which is just four months away. Kejriwal expressed his desire to return to office only after securing the trust and mandate of the people through the electoral process.
