Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's announcement of his resignation has sent shockwaves through both the political landscape and his party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This decision comes just days after his release from Tihar Jail, following the Supreme Court's grant of bail in the high-profile liquor policy case. Kejriwal's decision to step down has sparked feverish speculation about his motives and the future leadership of Delhi, as the political climate intensifies in the lead-up to the upcoming elections, which are expected within the next few months.
Kejriwal’s declaration, made during an emotional address to AAP workers and leaders on Sunday, emphasized his commitment to integrity and public trust. He stated that he would not return to his position as Chief Minister until the people of Delhi give him a clear mandate. This move is widely seen as a bold attempt to reclaim public confidence, as the AAP grapples with mounting allegations of corruption and political opposition.
Senior AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Raghav Chadha, have been in continuous meetings with Kejriwal to discuss the party’s strategy moving forward. Sources indicate that Kejriwal's resignation will likely take effect tomorrow, with plans already in place for him to meet Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena at 4:30 pm to formally tender his resignation. The party is expected to hold a key legislative meeting tomorrow at 11:30 am, during which the next Chief Minister will be selected. AAP insiders have hinted that Kejriwal has personally ruled out Manish Sisodia as his successor, despite initial speculation. Sisodia himself has reaffirmed his decision to wait for public endorsement before assuming any official role.
In a heartfelt post on social media, Sisodia mirrored Kejriwal's sentiment, stating that he would not return as Deputy Chief Minister or Education Minister unless the public supports his honesty. He highlighted that his 17-month-long imprisonment on what he claims were "false charges" had deeply affected him, and he expressed his desire to seek validation from the people of Delhi before returning to office. Sisodia reiterated that his focus remains on education reforms, but he will only resume his post if the electorate reaffirms their trust in him during the upcoming elections.
Kejriwal’s resignation decision is being met with mixed reactions. The opposition has been quick to label the move as a "public relations stunt" or a calculated "gimmick" designed to repair his image amidst the liquor policy scandal. However, within AAP, the resignation is being seen as a principled decision aimed at maintaining the party's reputation for transparency and honesty. Sources close to the Chief Minister suggested that this decision was not taken lightly, and it was reached after several high-level internal meetings with senior AAP leadership.
The AAP Political Affairs Committee (PAC) is set to continue discussions this evening regarding Kejriwal's successor. The meeting follows an hour-long brainstorming session between Kejriwal, Sisodia, and Raghav Chadha earlier in the day. Party insiders have indicated that Kejriwal has made up his mind about stepping down from the Chief Minister’s office, and he is expected to vacate the official residence within 15 days of his resignation. The move comes after extensive internal deliberations, with Kejriwal determined to step aside and seek a new public mandate.
Kejriwal’s announcement has added to the already complex political dynamics in Delhi. With elections looming, the AAP will need to quickly regroup and select a new leader who can guide the party through this critical period. The party's core message of anti-corruption and good governance will likely play a central role in the upcoming elections, as it seeks to counter the narrative pushed by the opposition amid the ongoing liquor policy case.
As the dust settles on Kejriwal’s bombshell announcement, all eyes will be on AAP’s next steps and the leadership transition in the coming days. The outcome of tomorrow's legislative meeting will likely shape the future trajectory of the party and its governance in Delhi, as AAP faces one of its most challenging periods yet.
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