Zohran Mamdani sworn in as New York City's first Muslim mayor

WISE NEWS PRESS / NEW YORK, USA — 02 JANUARY 2026

Zohran Mamdani officially began his tenure as New York City’s 112th mayor in the early hours of New Year’s Day, becoming the first Muslim and first South Asian individual to lead the nation's largest city.

During a private ceremony held at the historic and long-unused Old City Hall Subway Station, the 34-year-old Uganda-born mayor took his oath of office with his hand placed on the Quran. Managed by New York Attorney General Letitia James and attended by close family, the choice of venue was intended to highlight the vital importance of public transit to the city's heritage and vitality. Mamdani, who emerged victorious from the November 4 elections with over 1 million votes, is the youngest mayor to lead New York in the last century.

A historic mandate and record turnout

Mamdani's victory was secured through a historic electoral process that saw the highest voter turnout in New York City since 1969. According to CBS News, more than 2 million citizens participated in the election, reflecting a significant surge in civic engagement. In his post-oath remarks, Mamdani described the role as a "lifetime honor and privilege," emphasizing his commitment to serving the diverse population of the metropolis.

Public inauguration and city celebrations

Following the private swearing-in, a large-scale public ceremony is scheduled to take place on the steps of City Hall during the afternoon. The event will feature an opening speech by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, while U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders will administer the formal public oath. Thousands of ticketed guests are expected to attend, followed by a massive public street party on Broadway, which tens of thousands of New Yorkers are invited to join for free.

Security and infrastructure priorities

As the city prepares for the festivities, the New York Police Department (NYPD) has announced extensive road closures across Manhattan to manage the large crowds. Mayor Mamdani signaled that his administration would prioritize the city's infrastructure, specifically the transit system, which served as the backdrop for his symbolic first oath. With the completion of both private and public ceremonies, Mamdani officially steps into his role, marking a new chapter in the city's political history.

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