MCD bypoll results may have bearing on cabinet reshuffle

The stakes are surely going to be high as these constituencies fall under the assembly segments represented by these leaders. The onus of the party’s performance lies on them in these wards

NEW DELHI: Besides being a semifinal for the municipal corporation elections early next year, the bypoll results of the 13 municipal wards going to polls on May 15 could have a bearing on the cabinet reshuffle.

The cabinet reshuffle, sources said, has been delayed till the bypoll results, scheduled to be declared on May 18, and the ‘role’ and ‘performance’ of some of the senior party leaders holding important constitutional posts and ministers is being watched by the party leadership.

Sources said some of the candidates had been fielded on the recommendations of these leaders and their performance in the bypolls could have a bearing on the future of the leaders who backed their candidature. SENIOR AAP LEADER

While Shalimar Bagh North candidate, Dr. Anvika Mittal, was recommended by deputy speaker Bandana Kumari, Jhilmil candidate Ghansayam Kumar was backed by speaker Ramniwas Goel. Similarly, Ballimaran candidate Mohammad Sadiq was fielded on the recommendation of environment minister Imran Hussain. Sadiq is also a close relative of Hussain.

“The stakes are surely going to be high as these constituencies fall under the assembly segments represented by these leaders. The onus of the party’s performance lies on them in these wards,” a senior party leader said.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal was reportedly planning to rejig his cabinet after the budget session. But the decision was delayed due to the announcement of the MCD bypoll dates. Apart from redistributing the portfolios, one or two ministers could also be changed. Speaker Ramniwas Goel is also reportedly in the running to be inducted in the cabinet.

“The final decision has to be taken by the chief minister, be it changing portfolios or making any change in the Vidhan Sabha,” said a senior party leader.