### Thackeray Cousins Unite: Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS Form Alliance for Upcoming Mumbai Civic Elections In a significant political development ahead of the Mumbai civic polls scheduled for January 15, 2026, Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have announced a formal alliance. This collaboration aims to consolidate their efforts against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and to ensure a strong Marathi leadership in the municipal governance of Mumbai. The announcement was made during a joint press conference on December 24, 2025, where both leaders emphasized their commitment to work together for the welfare of the city and its residents [https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/dec/24/shiv-sena-ubt-mns-announce-alliance-ahead-of-mumbai-civic-polls]. ### Structure of the Alliance and Its Implications 1. **Alliance Formation**: The Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS have officially joined forces, marking a reunion of the Thackeray cousins in a bid to strengthen their political foothold in Mumbai [https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/shiv-senaubt-and-mns-announce-alliance-ahead-of-municipal-corporation-elections/article70432859.ece]. 2. **Seat Sharing**: While specific details regarding seat-sharing arrangements have not been disclosed, both parties have expressed a desire to resolve any disputes amicably to present a united front against the BJP [https://www.indiatvnews.com/maharashtra/bmc-polls-shiv-sena-ubt-mns-resolve-seat-sharing-dispute-thackeray-brothers-to-announce-alliance-soon-latest-updates-2025-12-22-1022830]. 3. **Impact on BJP**: The alliance is expected to challenge the BJP's dominance in Marathi-dominated civic bodies, compelling the BJP to rely more on its coalition partner, the Shinde Sena, for support in these elections [https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/uddhav-raj-thackeray-reunite-bmc-polls-bjp-fight-its-hands-10435718]. 4. **Political Context**: This alliance comes at a crucial time as elections for 29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), are approaching, with the counting of votes set for January 16, 2026 [https://www.indiatvnews.com/maharashtra/bmc-polls-shiv-sena-ubt-mns-resolve-seat-sharing-dispute-thackeray-brothers-to-announce-alliance-soon-latest-updates-2025-12-22-1022830]. ### Evidence of Political Dynamics - **Civic Elections Timeline**: The elections for the BMC and other civic bodies are scheduled for January 15, 2026, with results to be announced the following day [https://www.indiatvnews.com/maharashtra/bmc-polls-shiv-sena-ubt-mns-resolve-seat-sharing-dispute-thackeray-brothers-to-announce-alliance-soon-latest-updates-2025-12-22-1022830]. - **BJP's Strategy**: The BJP has reached a consensus on 150 out of 227 wards in the BMC, indicating a strategic approach to maintain its influence in the region amidst the Thackeray alliance [https://www.hawk.in/news/india/bmc-polls-bjp-shiv-sena-reach-consensus-on-150-of-total-227-wards]. ### Conclusion: A New Political Landscape in Mumbai The alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS signifies a pivotal shift in Mumbai's political landscape as both parties aim to reclaim their influence in the face of BJP's stronghold. 1. **Strategic Collaboration**: The Thackeray cousins' reunion is a strategic move to consolidate Marathi votes and challenge the BJP's authority in the upcoming elections. 2. **Potential Outcomes**: The success of this alliance could reshape the governance of Mumbai, emphasizing the need for a corruption-free administration and a focus on local issues. 3. **Future Implications**: As the elections approach, the dynamics between these parties and the BJP will be crucial in determining the political future of Mumbai [https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/dec/24/shiv-sena-ubt-mns-announce-alliance-ahead-of-mumbai-civic-polls].