The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is bracing for significant political developments in New Delhi as it prepares for next year’s elections. On Tuesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and senior AAP leaders will make key decisions that could shape the party’s future in the national capital. These meetings come at a critical time, as the party and its leader navigate the aftermath of the excise policy case and Kejriwal’s recent release from Tihar jail.

Kejriwal’s Likely Resignation

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is expected to meet the lieutenant governor of Delhi at 4:30 pm today, where he is likely to submit his resignation. Kejriwal has framed this move as a direct appeal to the public, vowing not to return to the chief minister’s chair until the people give him a “certificate of honesty.” The AAP supremo made his intentions clear over the weekend, just days after being released on bail in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

In his statement on Sunday, Kejriwal vowed to resign within 48 hours and pushed for early elections in Delhi, tentatively set for January 2025. His resignation marks a bold attempt to rally public support and shift the narrative surrounding his administration’s recent controversies. Kejriwal’s demand for a “certificate of honesty” from the electorate, in the form of a victory in the 2025 elections, is aimed at validating his leadership amid allegations of corruption.

A Legislative Party Meeting

As Kejriwal prepares to step down, AAP leaders are also set to convene for a legislative party meeting at 11:30 am today. The meeting will focus on selecting the party’s nominee for the position of chief minister, a decision that could significantly impact AAP’s fortunes in the upcoming elections.

Several names are reportedly being considered for the role. Among the frontrunners are Delhi ministers Atishi, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, and Saurabh Bharadwaj, all of whom have held prominent positions within Kejriwal’s government. Party insiders suggest that Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal, and Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel are also being discussed as possible contenders.

Potential Candidates for Chief Minister

Each of the potential candidates for the chief minister’s position brings unique strengths to the table. Atishi, known for her work in the education sector, has been a prominent figure in the AAP government and could appeal to voters who value progressive governance. Gopal Rai, with his experience in agriculture and labour reforms, is another strong contender.

Kailash Gahlot, who oversees transport and revenue, has also been a key player in Kejriwal’s administration and could be seen as a candidate capable of continuing AAP’s infrastructure development initiatives. Meanwhile, Saurabh Bharadwaj, a senior leader with expertise in health and urban development, may be another strong choice. The inclusion of Sunita Kejriwal’s name in the list of potential candidates adds an interesting dynamic, though it remains unclear how seriously her candidacy is being considered.

A Strategic Move Ahead of the 2025 Elections

Kejriwal’s decision to resign, coupled with the selection of a new candidate for chief minister, signals a calculated strategy by the AAP to reset its public image and energise its base ahead of the January 2025 elections. By stepping down, Kejriwal hopes to shift attention away from the controversies surrounding the excise policy case and frame the upcoming elections as a referendum on his leadership and integrity.

However, the selection of a new chief ministerial candidate is also fraught with risk. Whoever is chosen will need to quickly step into the role and assume leadership of a party that has been closely identified with Kejriwal’s personality and vision. Managing this transition effectively will be crucial if AAP hopes to maintain its electoral momentum.

Excise Policy Case and Its Impact

The excise policy case, which led to Kejriwal’s arrest and subsequent release on bail, continues to cast a shadow over AAP. The case has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with opposition parties accusing AAP of corruption and mismanagement. Kejriwal has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has framed the case as a politically motivated attack against him and his party.

With his resignation, Kejriwal is effectively betting that the people of Delhi will view him as an honest leader who has been unfairly targeted by his political opponents. By positioning himself as someone seeking the public’s approval rather than clinging to power, he aims to solidify his base and appeal to undecided voters.

Looking Ahead

As the day unfolds, the political landscape in Delhi is poised for significant changes. Kejriwal’s resignation, if tendered, will mark a new chapter for the Aam Aadmi Party, which must now rally behind a new leader while also preparing for a tough electoral battle in 2025.

The AAP’s ability to manage the transition from Kejriwal’s leadership to a new chief minister, while simultaneously defending itself against the fallout from the excise policy case, will play a crucial role in determining its prospects in the upcoming elections. How effectively the party navigates this delicate moment will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents alike.