After nearly two decades of political distance, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Wednesday formally announced a political alliance, a move that has generated significant buzz across Maharashtra. The announcement was made at a joint press conference in Mumbai, where the two cousins appeared together for the first time in 18 years.
The alliance between the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been finalised, but key details particularly seat-sharing for the upcoming municipal elections remain undecided. Raj Thackeray said the parties have chosen not to disclose how many seats each will contest or in which constituencies, adding that these details will be shared at the right time.
“We will speak openly in public meetings in the coming days. I have always believed that Maharashtra is bigger than any personal dispute, and that belief is what brought us together,” Raj Thackeray said. In a sharp remark aimed at political rivals, he said seat details were being withheld to prevent “political poaching” of candidates, adding that nominations would be announced when the time is right.
Before the press conference, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray visited the memorial of Balasaheb Thackeray to pay their respects. They were later joined by Rashmi Thackeray, Sharmila Thackeray, Aditya Thackeray and Amit Thackeray, who also offered floral tributes.
Both leaders confirmed that they would contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections together. Raj Thackeray said discussions are underway for other municipal corporations across the state and alliances will be announced once decisions are finalised. Expressing confidence, he said the next mayor of Mumbai would be a Marathi leader and would come from their alliance.
The alliance garnered a sharp critique from the BJP. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reacted cautiously to the development, saying he was glad to see the Thackeray brothers reunite but dismissed claims that the alliance would have a major political impact. “If someone thinks this will dramatically change the political situation, that is a naïve assumption,” Fadnavis said. He added that voters in Mumbai would judge parties based on governance and development rather than emotional appeals. Accusing the alliance leaders of repeatedly disappointing Mumbaikars, Fadnavis said people would back the Mahayuti government after assessing its work, particularly its housing initiatives for Marathi residents in the city.
