In a significant development for Delhi politics, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has reiterated its demand for early elections in the national capital. Gopal Rai, an AAP leader, announced that Atishi Marlena Singh will assume the role of Chief Minister until Arvind Kejriwal is elected back into office with a “thumping” majority.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Rai detailed the party’s strategy moving forward. He stated, “When Arvind Kejriwal decided to resign, a legislative party meeting was held today. It was unanimously decided that until the next elections, which we hope to see held in October-November at the earliest, and unless Arvind Kejriwal is reinstated as Delhi CM with a decisive mandate, Atishi would carry out the responsibilities as the new CM.”
Rai outlined two primary responsibilities assigned to Atishi by the MLAs. The first is to maintain continuity in governance despite potential obstacles from the BJP. The second is to shield the public from any tactics employed by the Aam Aadmi Party’s opponents.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will tender his resignation on Tuesday, paving the way for the new government to stake its claim. Following this announcement, Delhi government minister Kailash Gehlot, who was also considered a potential successor, confirmed that there was unanimous agreement on Atishi’s appointment.
Atishi’s selection was officially proposed by Kejriwal during a party MLAs’ meeting. Sources confirmed that Kejriwal’s proposal was met with strong support from the MLAs, cementing Atishi’s role as Delhi’s newest Chief Minister.
Kejriwal’s announcement to step down comes in the wake of his release from Tihar Jail, where he was held after being granted bail by the Supreme Court in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case. The court’s conditions for his release include refraining from public comments about the case and attending all trial court hearings unless exempted.
Kejriwal has expressed his intention to push for early elections, aiming for a poll in November, ahead of the scheduled February elections. He has stated that a public mandate in his favor would serve as a testament to his honesty, reinforcing his commitment to transparency and accountability.
