In a significant political realignment ahead of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray formally announced an alliance between their parties, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. The joint declaration, made at a press conference in Mumbai, was centered on a strong pledge to ensure that Mumbai gets a Marathi mayor and a united appeal to the Marathi-speaking populace.
A Historic Reunion on the Dais
The event marked a notable public coming together of the Thackeray cousins after years of political rivalry. The stage saw a family reunion, with their wives Rashmi and Sharmila, and sons Aaditya and Amit Thackeray in attendance. The only other leader present on stage was Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut, credited with brokering the unity. Raut described the day as historic, drawing parallels with the Samyukta Maharashtra movement and asserting that present-day Maharashtra can only be led by the Thackerays.
"Today, we announce the alliance of Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena," stated Raj Thackeray, addressing the media alongside Uddhav. Uddhav Thackeray added that the alliance had been finalized in Nashik and other locations, with a detailed announcement expected within a day or two. He emphasized that continuing internal quarrels would be an insult to the sacrifices of the 105 martyrs of the statehood movement.
Appeal to Marathi Sentiment and a Dig at Rivals
The leaders framed the alliance as a necessary step for the unity and pride of Marathi people. Uddhav Thackeray coined a counter-slogan to the BJP's 'Batenge to Katenge', telling Marathi voters across the state, "Chukal tar sampal (if you make a mistake now, you will end)." Raj Thackeray echoed the sentiment, appealing, "I have only one request to all Marathis and those who love Maharashtra, stand with us in this election."
While the precise seat-sharing formula was not disclosed, Raj Thackeray made a definitive promise regarding Mumbai's top civic post. "But let me be clear. Mumbai’s mayor will be a Marathi, and that will be from us," he asserted. He also took an indirect jab at the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, accusing them of "snatching political kids," a reference to their practice of inducting leaders from other parties.
Navigating the Larger Opposition Landscape
The announcement also brought into focus the dynamics within the broader opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), as the Congress was not part of this specific civic pact. When questioned about a potential break in the MVA, Uddhav Thackeray responded diplomatically, stating the Congress had made its stand clear and that his focus was on the needs of Maharashtra and Marathi people.
The press conference concluded with the Thackeray cousins and Sanjay Raut posing for photographs, symbolizing their renewed political partnership. This alliance is poised to reshape the contest for India's richest civic body, making the BMC polls a direct battleground for Marathi pride and political supremacy in Mumbai.
