Recently, it was reported that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has set three priorities as it prepares for upcoming elections. These are to maintain control in Punjab, win in Goa, and expand its presence in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh for the 2027 assembly elections. Among these states, Gujarat poses the most significant challenge for AAP, especially since they had made a promising start with noteworthy performances in prior local elections.

In the lead-up to the 2022 Gujarat assembly elections, AAP had performed remarkably well in the 2021 Surat Municipal Corporation elections, capturing 27 out of 116 seats, while the Congress party was left with no representation. This shift positioned AAP as the main opposition in the state, showcasing their ability to challenge the BJP’s stronghold ahead of future local body elections.

However, as the local body elections approach, AAP is facing difficulties in retaining its leaders and maintaining momentum. Despite their previous successes in rural body elections last year, the challenge remains significant for AAP in consolidating their gains in a state dominated by the BJP, as they strive to sustain voter interest and party cohesion in a competitive political landscape.