Kathmandu: The election of Ugandan-born Zohran Mamdani as the mayor of New York City has sparked excitement among many Ugandans on Wednesday. Mamdani, 34, became the first Muslim mayor of the largest city in the United States after winning Tuesday’s election.

Early Life and Background

Born in Uganda to an Indian-origin family, Mamdani moved to the United States at the age of seven. He is now the youngest person to become mayor of New York in more than 100 years.

Pride and Reactions in Uganda

A wave of celebration was seen at Makerere University in Kampala, where Mamdani’s father once served as a senior academic.
“When I see Zohran there, I feel I can also build America (New York),” said 22-year-old psychology student Anthony Kirabo, expressing pride in Mamdani’s achievement as a symbol of Ugandan potential.

Lessons for Uganda’s Politics

Some Ugandans believe Mamdani’s victory sends a message ahead of Uganda’s own presidential election expected in January. President Yoweri Museveni, 81, is seeking a seventh term.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine, 43, congratulated Mamdani, saying he draws strength from his victory to build a nation where every citizen can realize their dreams.

Calls for Free and Fair Elections

Joseph Sendagire, a procurement officer in Kampala, said Uganda should learn from New York’s democratic process and adopt fair electoral practices.
Others praised Mamdani’s pro-poor political stance—taxing the rich and supporting the poor—as an inspiring model for Uganda.