In a significant political shift, AAP leader Atishi has been named as the next Chief Minister of Delhi, succeeding Arvind Kejriwal, who announced his resignation. In her first reaction following the Aam Aadmi Party’s decision, Atishi expressed deep gratitude towards her political mentor and “guru,” Arvind Kejriwal, for giving her the immense responsibility of leading Delhi.
Atishi Thanks Kejriwal, Reflects on His Resignation
“I want to thank Delhi’s popular CM, my guru, Arvind Kejriwal, for giving me such a huge responsibility. It can happen only in AAP that a first-time politician can become the CM,” Atishi said. She added that coming from a regular family, she would not have even received a poll ticket in any other political party.
While Atishi expressed happiness at Kejriwal’s trust in her abilities, she also expressed sadness over his decision to step down as Delhi’s chief minister, a role she believes truly belongs to him. “I am happy that Arvind Kejriwal has shown so much trust in me, but more than that, I am sad because my elder brother Arvind Kejriwal is resigning today,” she stated.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Resignation and Political Future
Kejriwal announced his decision to resign as Delhi CM after securing bail in the Delhi excise policy case. He stated that he would not reassume his role until he received a “certificate of honesty” from Delhi’s people and called for elections in November.
Atishi further emphasized Kejriwal’s lasting legacy in Delhi, saying, “I want to say today on behalf of AAP MLAs and two crore people of Delhi that Delhi has only one CM and his name is Arvind Kejriwal.”
AAP’s Leadership Transition Amid Political Challenges
Atishi has been one of the Aam Aadmi Party’s most prominent leaders, especially during times when senior AAP figures, including Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and Sanjay Singh, were embroiled in legal battles. Holding key ministerial portfolios, Atishi took charge of defending the party’s policies against the BJP’s challenges.
The political landscape in Delhi is set to change as Atishi steps into the CM role amid continued scrutiny of the Delhi government’s excise policy and Kejriwal’s legal troubles. The Bharatiya Janata Party has claimed that Kejriwal’s resignation was influenced by the conditions laid out by the Supreme Court.