Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi took oath as Delhi’s chief minister on Saturday, succeeding Arvind Kejriwal who resigned earlier this week amidst ongoing legal proceedings. Atishi, 43, was administered oath by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena at Raj Niwas, marking a significant transition in the city’s governance. The ceremony was attended by key AAP leaders and officials. Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Imran Hussain, and newcomer Mukesh Ahlawat also took oath as ministers, retaining their positions in the new government. This development comes ahead of Delhi’s assembly polls scheduled for February 2025.

Atishi’s appointment as chief minister is seen as a strategic move by AAP to revamp its image and prepare for the upcoming elections. As a former minister in Kejriwal’s cabinet, Atishi handled 14 portfolios, including finance, education, and revenue, demonstrating her administrative capabilities. Her tenure will focus on consolidating AAP’s support base and addressing key issues affecting Delhiites. Kejriwal’s resignation followed his grant of bail by the Supreme Court in a corruption case related to the Delhi excise policy. He has announced plans to campaign extensively, seeking a public verdict on his honesty and underscoring AAP’s commitment to transparency.

The transition of power from Kejriwal to Atishi is significant, as she becomes Delhi’s third female chief minister after late Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Atishi’s leadership will be closely watched, particularly considering the brief tenure before the assembly polls. AAP’s electoral strategy will likely focus on highlighting its governance achievements and countering opposition attacks. With the BJP and Congress already gearing up for the polls, Delhi is set for a intense electoral battle. Atishi’s ability to navigate these challenges and connect with voters will be crucial in determining AAP’s fortunes in the upcoming elections.