DIGITAL NEWS GURU DELHI DESK:
After Arvind Kejriwal’s Resignation: Probable faces who could become next CM of Delhi
With the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal as Chief Minister of Delhi, attention has quickly shifted to who will replace him as the next leader of the capital. Several prominent names from within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have emerged as potential candidates, each with unique qualifications and political appeal.
- Atishi Marlena
Among the frontrunners is Atishi Marlena, a prominent figure in Kejriwal’s cabinet who currently oversees key portfolios like education, finance, and power. Atishi is widely credited with spearheading many of Delhi’s education reforms, which have become a central pillar of AAP’s success. Since the arrest of Manish Sisodia in connection with the liquor policy scandal, Atishi has taken on additional responsibilities and is now handling 11 departments, the most in the Delhi government.
Her work on education reforms, along with her rise within AAP, makes her a strong contender. Elevating Atishi to the position of Chief Minister would signal a continued focus on social reforms, and as a female leader, her appointment could also bring gender diversity to the forefront of Delhi’s leadership.
- Gopal Rai
Gopal Rai, another key AAP leader and current Environment Minister of Delhi, is also being considered for the top position. Rai has been with AAP since its inception and is a trusted ally of Kejriwal. His experience in managing critical portfolios and his long-standing association with the party make him a likely choice for leading the government during this transitional period.
Rai’s role in spearheading Delhi’s green initiatives and his steady leadership style would bring stability to the government. Moreover, his close relationship with Kejriwal could ensure continuity in policy direction, appealing to both AAP loyalists and Delhi voters.
3. Kailash Gahlot
Currently holds eight departments: law, justice and legislative affairs, transport, administrative reforms, IT, revenue, finance, planning, and ome and all other departments not specifically allotted to any minister.
4. Saurabh Bharadwaj
Currently holds seven departments: Vigilance, services, health, industries, urban development, irrigation and flood control, and water.
- Rakhi Birla
Rakhi Birla, the current Deputy Speaker of the Delhi Assembly, is another prominent name in the race. Birla has been a key member of AAP since its early days and represents the party’s grassroots commitment to local governance.
Her appointment as Chief Minister could enhance AAP’s appeal to female voters and signal a commitment to social inclusivity. Although less experienced than Atishi or Gopal Rai, Birla’s leadership role within the Delhi Assembly and her strong connections to the party base make her a viable candidate.
- Sandeep Pathak
Sandeep Pathak, though less publicly known in Delhi politics, has been instrumental in AAP’s expansion beyond the capital. A former academic and political strategist, Pathak has been credited with helping AAP achieve electoral victories in Punjab and other states.
Appointing Pathak as the Chief Minister could indicate AAP’s desire to project a national image, especially with upcoming elections in Haryana and other states where the party is looking to gain ground. His skills in political organization and strategy could help AAP consolidate its electoral presence, not just in Delhi but nationwide.
- The Role of Family and Party Loyalty
There has been speculation regarding the possibility of a family member of Kejriwal, particularly his wife Sunita Kejriwal, being elevated to the position of Chief Minister. While this remains a less likely scenario, especially given AAP’s public stance against dynastic politics, the option cannot be entirely dismissed.
Moreover, internal party dynamics may also play a crucial role in determining the next leader. Kejriwal’s resignation leaves a vacuum in AAP’s leadership, and the next Chief Minister must be someone who can command the respect and loyalty of party members while continuing to appeal to Delhi’s electorate. The challenge for AAP will be to balance internal cohesion with public perception, particularly in light of the corruption allegations that have plagued the party in recent months.
- Electoral Impact and Timing
The decision on who will replace Kejriwal as Chief Minister comes at a critical juncture, with Delhi Assembly elections just months away, likely in early 2025. The next leader will have to not only manage the day-to-day governance of the city but also prepare the party for a tough electoral battle.
With the BJP aggressively positioning itself to challenge AAP’s dominance in Delhi, the choice of the next Chief Minister could have significant electoral consequences. The successor must navigate the political landscape carefully, particularly in the face of the corruption allegations tied to the liquor policy scandal. Additionally, the successor must maintain the momentum of the AAP’s popular welfare schemes, such as free electricity, water subsidies, and education reforms, which have been key to the party’s electoral success.
Conclusion
Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for Delhi and the Aam Aadmi Party. While his exit is largely seen as a strategic maneuver to gain public sympathy and avoid the imposition of President’s Rule, the question of who will succeed him remains open.
Whether it is Atishi, Gopal Rai, Rakhi Birla, or another party leader, the next Chief Minister will need to manage internal party dynamics, restore public confidence, and prepare for the upcoming elections. As Delhi awaits the announcement of its next leader, AAP faces the dual challenge of maintaining its governance model while navigating the electoral battleground. The decision will be crucial not only for Delhi but for AAP’s broader political ambitions across India.
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