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

Zohran Mamdani has officially taken office as the 112th mayor of New York City in a historic ceremony that highlighted both his groundbreaking election and the challenges he faces ahead.

The 34-year-old Democrat was sworn in shortly after midnight on January 1, 2026, at the disused Old City Hall subway station, making history as the first Muslim mayor of the United States’ largest city. His team noted that the choice of venue, a working-class subway station, reflected his roots and focus on addressing the cost-of-living pressures facing everyday New Yorkers.

In a symbolic break from tradition, Mamdani placed his hands on two copies of the Holy Quran—one belonging to his grandfather and another from the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center—while taking the oath of office.

Following the ceremony, Mamdani expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime.” The oath was officiated by New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Later in the day, Mamdani is set to hold a larger public inauguration outside City Hall, where thousands of ticketed guests will gather to hear speeches from progressive allies.

Mamdani, who was born in Uganda and raised in Queens, campaigned on progressive proposals, including rent freezes, universal childcare, and free public transport. As mayor, he will need to navigate relations with various city stakeholders, including business leaders and diverse communities, while fulfilling his ambitious agenda. His ability to balance these interests will be crucial to his leadership as tensions with former President Donald Trump, who criticized Mamdani during the election, continue to simmer.