'Officially declare Shiv Sena, MNS are partners': Raj Thackeray
What's the story
In a historic political reunion, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have officially announced their alliance for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The decision was made public at a joint press conference where both leaders expressed confidence in their partnership. "I officially declare that Shiv Sena and MNS are alliance partners," Raj Thackeray declared.
Identity politics
Alliance aims to reclaim Marathi identity in Mumbai
The alliance intends to bring back the Marathi identity in regional politics. Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), echoed his cousin's sentiments, saying, "Mumbai will stay with us, come what may." He also invoked a slogan from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath: "Batenge toh katenge," warning that division would be disastrous.
Vote consolidation
Alliance aims to prevent vote division in key wards
The alliance comes after weeks of negotiations over seat-sharing for elections across 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra. The reunion could help consolidate Marathi-speaking voters and prevent vote division in key wards. Sanjay Raut, a longtime ally of Uddhav Thackeray, hailed the reunion as an "auspicious beginning" to keep the saffron flag flying high on BMC and other municipal corporations.
Ideological reclaim
Reunion could undercut rival factions' claims
The reunion could also undercut the Eknath Shinde faction's claim to being the "true" inheritor of Bal Thackeray's legacy. This development could make things tougher for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as they will have to work harder for Marathi pride voters. The alliance is seen as a major political development that could change the dynamics of local politics in Mumbai and beyond.