In a major political shift, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday announced that Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray will contest the upcoming municipal elections together. The move signals a rare moment of unity between the cousins, who have often been seen on opposite sides of Maharashtra politics.

Raut said discussions between the two leaders had been “positive and constructive,” adding that the alliance aims to strengthen the opposition space against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state. “The people of Mumbai and other cities want change, and this unity will give them a strong alternative,” Raut told reporters.

Both Uddhav and Raj Thackeray have roots in the original Shiv Sena founded by Bal Thackeray. However, over the years, political differences led to the formation of separate parties and occasional clashes. The decision to come together for local body polls is being seen as a strategic attempt to consolidate the Marathi vote bank.

While details of seat-sharing and campaign strategy are yet to be finalized, political observers say the alliance could significantly impact the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, considered the most prestigious civic poll in the state.

The development has sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with BJP leaders calling it a “desperate attempt” while opposition parties welcomed the move.