In a significant political move, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal proposed Atishi Marlena as the new leader of the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Delhi Legislative Party on September 17, 2024. Atishi, a prominent AAP leader known for her work in education and governance, will succeed Kejriwal as Delhi’s chief minister. This comes after Kejriwal’s decision to resign, following his release from jail in connection to the excise policy case.

She holds 14 portfolios, including education, finance, and PWD, making her a natural choice for the top post. Her nomination was unanimously supported by the party’s MLAs, marking her as Delhi’s likely first woman chief minister in years. Kejriwal stated that he would only return to the CM’s chair with a “certificate of honesty” from the public, signaling a potential return after future elections.
With Marlena at the helm, AAP’s focus may shift toward advancing the Delhi Assembly elections, now speculated for November, earlier than the initially scheduled February elections.

Atishi’s leadership brings a fresh perspective to the capital’s governance, reflecting AAP’s strategy of continuity and innovation as they gear up for future challenges.