Ugandan Rapper-Turned-Politician Zohran Mamdani Dominates NYC Mayoral Primary

Zohran Kwame Mamdani, son of acclaimed Indian filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan’s legendary academic Mahmood Mamdani, has just shaken up New York City politics by emerging victorious in the Democratic primary for New York City’s mayoral race.

Born in New York to Ugandan-Indian heritage, Mamdani’s journey began in beats and bars. Before politics, he dabbled in rap under the alias Mr. Cardamom, blending politically conscious lyrics with South Asian and African rhythm. Now, he’s traded the mic for the mayor’s office — and he’s not missing a beat.

In the June 24 Democratic primary, Mamdani pulled off what many thought impossible, defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo despite heavy financial backing and a nationwide reputation. With over 43.5% of first-choice votes, the 33-year-old progressive Assemblyman emerged as the Democratic frontrunner for mayor of America’s largest city.

Before the assembly chamber, Mamdani’s stage was the underground hip-hop scene. He used music to challenge racism, capitalism, and gentrification. His lyrics tackled everything from immigrant identity to landlord power — themes that have now become policy pillars.

Though raised in Queens, Mamdani frequently references Kampala in his interviews, citing the city’s political complexity, creative culture, and resistance movements as major influences on his activist thinking.

Mamdani’s campaign is built on transformative policies that sound like verses from a protest anthem. His message is one of community care, rent justice, and social equity, resonated powerfully with voters, especially working-class communities and younger generations disillusioned by establishment politics.

These ideas, while branded “radical” by opponents, are drawing serious attention in a city still struggling with post-COVID inequality and police accountability.

With over 95% of ballots counted, Mamdani leads by a clear margin. If final results hold, expected by July 1, Mamdani will face off in the November 4 general election, likely against; Eric Adams, current mayor running as an independent and Curtis Sliwa, Republican candidate and Guardian Angels founder.

Mamdani’s rise is already being celebrated in parts of Kampala, where his family name carries intellectual weight. His success represents the increasing political power of African diasporans and the new forms of leadership they’re bringing — rooted in cultural pride, musical expression, and a radical vision for justice. A win in November would make Mamdani the first Ugandan descendant, first Muslim, and first millennial mayor in NYC history.