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Ugandans celebrate Zohran Mamdani’s New York City win as a beacon of democratic hope

Thursday 06 November 2025 - 13:30

By: Sahili Aya

Ugandans celebrate Zohran Mamdani’s New York City win as a beacon of democratic hope

Ugandans have expressed joy and pride after learning that Zohran Mamdani, a Kampala-born politician, was elected mayor of New York City, making him the first Muslim and first South Asian heritage mayor in the city’s history.

Mamdani, 34, who moved to the United States at the age of seven, defeated Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa in Tuesday’s election. Many in Uganda admitted they had never heard of him before, yet his win has become a symbol of inspiration and possibility across the country.

At Makerere University in Kampala, where Mamdani’s father, the renowned scholar Mahmood Mamdani, once taught, students celebrated his achievement. “Seeing Zohran up there makes me feel like I can make it too,” said psychology student Anthony Kirabo. “It shows that Uganda can produce great leaders.”

Mamdani’s victory comes during a tense period for democracy in East Africa, with widespread reports of repression and human rights abuses. In neighboring Tanzania, protests over election violence have left hundreds dead, while in Uganda, long-time president Yoweri Museveni seeks a seventh term amid mounting criticism.

Observers say the atmosphere in Uganda ahead of its January elections is increasingly hostile. Opposition leaders, including Kizza Besigye, have been detained for months, and new laws allow civilians to be tried in military courts. The recent abduction of two Kenyan human rights activists has also raised alarm over government intolerance.

For many, Mamdani’s success represents a glimmer of hope. “Uganda should learn from New York’s election — embrace fairness and equal opportunity,” said Joseph Sendagire, a young professional in Kampala.

Former media executive Robert Kabushenga, a friend of the Mamdani family, described the win as “a beacon of hope” for Uganda’s young activists. “It reminds us to give youth a real chance to shape our politics,” he said.

Opposition leader Bobi Wine congratulated Mamdani on X (formerly Twitter): “From Uganda, we celebrate and draw strength from your example as we work to build a country where every citizen can realize their grandest dreams.”

While some Ugandans see Mamdani’s victory as distant from their own political reality, others believe it signals what’s possible for Africa’s next generation. “It’s an encouragement,” said parliamentary opposition leader Joel Ssenyonyi. “But we still have a long way to go.”