New York, Jan 02 (V7N) — The largest city in the United States witnessed a historic moment as Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s first Muslim mayor, marking a milestone in the city’s political and cultural landscape. Mamdani took his oath by placing his hand on the Holy Quran during a modest ceremony held just after midnight at the historic but long-abandoned City Hall subway station in Manhattan.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath, with Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, standing beside him. In a brief address following the ceremony, Mamdani extended New Year greetings, saying he wished everyone in the city’s tunnels and all New Yorkers above ground a happy new year, calling the responsibility one of the greatest honors of his life.

At 34, Mamdani is not only the first Muslim mayor in New York City’s history but also the first mayor of South Asian descent and the first to be born in Africa. Born in Kampala, Uganda, he moved to New York with his family at the age of seven. He is the son of renowned filmmaker Mira Nair and prominent academic Mahmood Mamdani.

Identified as a democratic socialist, Mamdani secured victory in an election marked by record voter turnout. Of nearly two million voters, he won more than half of the total votes cast. His campaign promises, including rent stabilization, free bus services, free daycare for children, and reducing the overall cost of living, resonated strongly with young voters and low-income communities.

Political analysts, however, note that Mamdani’s path ahead will not be without challenges. His democratic socialist platform has drawn criticism from Republican circles. In addition, he faces pressing issues such as the city’s struggling subway system, waste management, housing shortages, and complex relations with the federal government.

Relations with US President Donald Trump are expected to be closely watched. During the election campaign, Trump publicly criticized Mamdani and threatened to reduce federal funding for New York. Despite this, analysts believe Mamdani’s clean image and strong grassroots support remain his greatest strengths.

Following the midnight oath, an official inauguration ceremony was held later in the day at City Hall Plaza. The presence of progressive leaders Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez underscored Mamdani’s political alignment.

As the new year begins, New York City has embraced a new and unconventional leadership, with the global community now watching closely to see whether Mamdani can deliver on his promise of ushering in a “new era” for the city.

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