Mumbai, Dec 24 (NationPress) In a significant political move ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) head Raj Thackeray officially declared a political partnership on Wednesday, marking a remarkable reunion of the Thackeray cousins after almost twenty years. He stated, "We have come together to stay together."

During a crucial joint press briefing held here, the two leaders expressed that they had put aside their prior disagreements to uphold the honor of Maharashtra and defend the rights of the “Marathi Manoos”. They emphasized that this alliance is designed to contest against the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, both of which wield considerable influence in the state.

While specifics regarding seat allocation and the alliance's role in other civic bodies were not revealed, Raj Thackeray mentioned that the BMC Mayor from the coalition would be a Marathi individual. Uddhav Thackeray, in turn, affirmed the enduring nature of the reunion, stating that they had “come together to stay together.”

Adopting a confrontational stance, Uddhav Thackeray criticized the BJP’s political narrative. He evoked the legacy of the Thackeray family, recalling the sacrifices made by his grandfather, Prabodhankar Thackeray, and father Balasaheb Thackeray for Mumbai and Maharashtra.

“Today, Mumbai has become an eyesore for the rulers in Delhi. We have united out of a sense of duty, and this bond will not be broken,” he declared.

Taking a jab at the BJP’s slogan, Uddhav warned: “The BJP says ‘Katenge toh Batenge’ (if divided, we will fall). I say -- ‘Chukal tar Sampal’ (if you falter now, you will face destruction). We will not relent until we politically eradicate those dreaming of separating Mumbai from Maharashtra.”

Raj Thackeray elaborated on the ideological foundation of their reunion, linking it back to a previous interview where he asserted that Maharashtra’s interests must take precedence over personal disputes.

“I officially announce the alliance between Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena,” Raj declared. “Maharashtra requires stability at a time when ‘gangs’ that hijack political parties are roving through the state. This partnership is not merely for the elections; it is for the long-term welfare of Maharashtra.”

In his characteristic humor, Raj Thackeray explained the decision to keep seat-sharing arrangements confidential.

“Previously, there were gangs that abducted children. Now, some gangs abduct political party members. Thus, we will not disclose who will be contesting from where. Candidates will be informed in private when to file their nominations,” he stated.

Both leaders emphasized that perpetuating their rivalry would be an insult to the martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement.

The joint press conference concluded with Raj Thackeray asserting, “The Mumbai alliance is just the beginning. I can say with absolute confidence -- the next Mayor of Mumbai will be Marathi and will belong to our coalition.”

Earlier, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, in his opening statements, described the day as “historic for Maharashtra,” noting that the reunion after two decades was a “moment of joy for every Marathi individual.” He remarked that the Shiv Sena was established by Balasaheb Thackeray for the “sons of the soil,” and that the extended division between the cousins had deeply affected Maharashtra.

Before the press conference, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray arrived together in the same vehicle and paid homage to Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray at his memorial at Chhatrapati Shivaji Park in Dadar. They were joined by Rashmi Thackeray, Sharmila Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray, and Amit Thackeray, along with a large crowd of Shiv Sainiks and MNS supporters.