Zohran Mamdani has taken oath as the new mayor of New York City. The 34-year-old Indian-origin Democrat was sworn in at a decommissioned subway station in Manhattan, making history as the first Muslim mayor of America’s largest city.  As he took the oath of office, Mamdani placed his hand on the Quran, held by his wife, Rama Duwaji. “This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime,” he said, visibly moved by the moment.

“This is truly the honor and the privilege of a lifetime,” Mamdani said shortly after taking the oath.

ALSO READ

Zohran Mamdani sworn in as NYC mayor

The oath was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a close political ally, at the old City Hall subway station. The station, one of the city’s original subway stops, is known for its sweeping arches and ornate ceilings and has long been closed to the public. Its use for the ceremony underscored both the city’s history and Mamdani’s message of renewal.

The immigrant from Uganda, who previously served as a state assemblyman from Queens, rose to spotlight with a campaign focused on tackling New York’s affordability crisis. He promised to introduce a universal childcare program, freeze rent for around two million rent-stabilized tenants, and make city buses “fast and free.”

ALSO READ

Mamdani’s swearing-in took place just after midnight at the old City Hall subway station in Manhattan. Closed to the public since 1945, the station is one of New York’s 28 original subway stops from 1904. The private ceremony was attended by Mamdani’s wife, artist Rama Duwaji, and his parents, filmmaker Mira Nair and professor Mahmood Mamdani.

Speaking at the historic station, Mamdani also announced Michael Flynn, a longtime city planner, as the next Commissioner of the Department of Transportation.

Public ceremony and block party to follow

Later on Thursday, Mamdani will take the oath again at City Hall Plaza in a public ceremony. The event is expected to draw at least 4,000 people. Progressive leaders, including Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, will participate, and the oath will be administered by independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Following the ceremony, a block party titled the “Inauguration of a New Era” will take place along Broadway’s “Canyon of Heroes.”

Following which, Mamdani and his wife will move from their one-bedroom, rent-stabilized apartment in the outer boroughs to the stately mayoral residence in Manhattan, stepping into one of the most demanding jobs in American politics.

Mamdani’s new administration has already outlined plans to address affordability and improve city life. Funding these initiatives may require new taxes on the wealthy, which will need approval from the state legislature and governor. While New York currently enjoys general economic strength, many working-class residents face a high cost of living.