Mumbai: Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have reportedly agreed to contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections together. The decision marks a shift after years of political separation and signals a joint attempt to regain control of Mumbai’s civic body.
The proposed alliance relies on a strategy known as the MaMu factor. The approach focuses on consolidating Marathi and Muslim voters across the city. Planning has centred on 72 Marathi dominated wards and 41 Muslim influenced wards out of a total 227.
Seat sharing discussions form the core of the talks. The proposal allocates 140 to 150 seats to Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray and 60 to 70 seats to the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena led by Raj Thackeray. Talks have stalled in four key Marathi strongholds. These include Worli, Dadar Mahim, Sewree, and Vikhroli.
Sources familiar with the negotiations said most wards stand finalised. Disagreement continues over select wards located in assembly constituencies held by Uddhav Thackeray’s legislators. These areas hold symbolic value linked to Marathi identity and long standing Sena influence.
Uddhav Thackeray has focused attention on minority voters. His party recorded gains in Muslim majority areas such as Govandi, Mankhurd, Byculla, and Mahim during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Raj Thackeray plans to mobilise Marathi voters through public meetings and speeches. Joint rallies across Mumbai remain under discussion.
As campaigning intensifies, leaders across parties have stated Mumbai requires a Marathi mayor. BJP Mumbai president Ameet Satam expressed confidence in the ruling Mahayuti alliance. He said the goal remains victory across all wards with a target of more than 150 seats.
With over 10 million registered voters and counting scheduled for January 16, the civic contest remains closely watched. Alliances and ward level equations are set to decide the outcome.
