Mumbai: In a major political development ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Elections 2026, Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) have formally announced an alliance for the upcoming civic polls scheduled on January 15.
The long-anticipated announcement was made during a joint press conference in Mumbai, putting an end to months of speculation about a possible reunion of the Thackeray cousins ahead of the high-stakes municipal elections.
Formal Alliance Announced, Seat-Sharing Formula Awaited
The joint media interaction, held at a hotel in Worli, marked the first official confirmation of the alliance between MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT). While both parties confirmed they will contest the civic elections together, leaders chose not to disclose details about seat-sharing arrangements.
Announcing the alliance, Raj Thackeray said Maharashtra’s interests were above personal or political differences. He added that the Mayor of Mumbai would be a Marathi and would come from their alliance.
‘Together to Stay Together,’ Say Thackeray Cousins
Standing alongside Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray said the alliance was formed with the intent to remain united for the larger cause of Maharashtra and the ‘Marathi manoos’. Leaders from both parties stressed that unity was necessary to protect Mumbai’s identity and political legacy.
Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut and members of the Thackeray family were also present at the press conference, reinforcing the message of reconciliation and collective resolve.
Mumbai Mayor From Alliance, Focus on Marathi Identity
Raj Thackeray expressed confidence that the next Mayor of Mumbai would be Marathi and elected from the MNS–Shiv Sena (UBT) alliance. The statement drew strong reactions across political circles, underlining the importance of identity politics in the upcoming BMC elections.
The alliance is expected to focus heavily on civic governance, urban development, and safeguarding the interests of Marathi-speaking residents in Mumbai.
Seat-Sharing Talks Continue Across Key Mumbai Wards
Despite the formal announcement, negotiations are still ongoing over seat distribution in several crucial BMC wards. Differences reportedly remain in areas such as Dadar, Mahim, Borivali, Vikhroli, Bhandup, and Sewri.
Leaders from both parties indicated that the alliance announcement was delayed as Raj Thackeray wanted clarity on seat-sharing before making the partnership official.
Alliance Talks Extend Beyond Mumbai
Discussions between the two parties also covered elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Nashik, and other major urban centres. However, the BMC remains the primary battleground due to its political and financial significance.
Political Legacy and Sharp Remarks Grab Attention
During the press conference, Uddhav Thackeray referred to the Thackeray family’s role in the Samyukta Maharashtra movement and the formation of Shiv Sena by Bal Thackeray to protect Marathi interests in Mumbai.
When asked about comments from BJP leader Raosaheb Danve suggesting this could be Thackeray’s last election, Uddhav dismissed the remark. Raj Thackeray followed with a sharp one-liner, drawing laughter from the audience and adding a lighter moment to the otherwise serious political event.
Opposition Strategy After 2024 Setbacks
The alliance comes after disappointing performances by both parties in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, where the MNS failed to win a seat and Shiv Sena (UBT) managed only 20 seats. These results triggered renewed efforts to bridge differences between the cousins.
The Congress has decided to stay out of the alliance, citing ideological differences and concerns over MNS’s past agitations. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders said discussions are ongoing for nearly 40 BMC seats where candidate selection remains uncertain.
BMC Elections 2026: A High-Stakes Contest for Mumbai
With the Thackeray brothers joining forces, the political equation in Mumbai has undergone a significant shift. The alliance is expected to strengthen Shiv Sena (UBT)’s prospects in nearly 39 key BMC wards, while also reshaping opposition strategies.
As campaigning intensifies and seat-sharing negotiations continue, the BMC Elections 2026 are shaping up to be one of the most closely watched civic battles in Mumbai’s recent political history.
