Wed Dec 24 07:24:59 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite of the provided text:

Summary:

The Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, have announced an alliance for the upcoming January 15th civic elections in Mumbai. The announcement, made on December 24, 2025, signals a united front between the cousins. While details on seat sharing are yet to be released, Raj Thackeray emphasized that the Mumbai Mayor would be Marathi and from their parties. Uddhav Thackeray invited disillusioned members of the BJP to join them. The announcement follows lengthy discussions and is framed as a defense of Mumbai and Marathi identity. Talks are ongoing with Sharad Pawar regarding Nashik elections.

News Article:

Thackeray Cousins Unite: Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS Announce Alliance for Mumbai Civic Elections

Mumbai, India – December 24, 2025 – In a significant development for Maharashtra politics, Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), and his cousin Raj Thackeray, head of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), announced a formal alliance today. The alliance will see the two parties contesting the upcoming January 15th civic elections in Mumbai together.

The announcement, made at a press conference in Mumbai, marks the culmination of protracted discussions between the two parties. While specifics regarding seat sharing remain undisclosed, Raj Thackeray stated definitively, “Mumbai Mayor will be a Marathi person and will be from our parties.” He further indicated that similar alliance talks are underway for Nashik, involving discussions with Sharad Pawar.

Uddhav Thackeray framed the alliance as a united front to protect Mumbai. “We have come together to stay together. We will finish off those who want to take away Mumbai,” he declared. He also extended an invitation to individuals within the BJP who are unhappy with the current political landscape, urging them to join their cause.

Sanjay Raut, a prominent leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), hailed the alliance as a historic moment for Maharashtra, predicting that it would usher in a period of strong leadership under the Thackeray banner.

The alliance is expected to significantly impact the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. The implications of this union remain to be seen, but political analysts suggest it could reshape the political landscape of Mumbai and Maharashtra.

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