Jolan Mamdani, the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor, is facing controversy after it was revealed that he held an extravagant three-day wedding in his native Uganda. Critics argue that the private event was inappropriate in both timing and manner, given that it took place during a national mourning period.
According to foreign media, including Fox News, Mamdani recently held his wedding at a family-owned mansion located in the upscale residential area of Buziga Hill, just outside the capital city of Kampala. The dwelling, covering approximately 2 acres, is reportedly situated in one of Uganda's wealthiest neighborhoods.
The wedding is believed to have been held on a scale nearly akin to a national event, under strict security. The New York Post, citing multiple witnesses, reported that there were more than three security gates and over 20 armed guards stationed at the mansion during the event, with communication jamming devices installed as well. A procession of luxury vehicles continued for three days, and witnesses stated that Christmas lights were set up in the garden, with DJ music and dance parties lasting late into the night.
This is not Mamdani's first wedding. In February, he filed for marriage in the U.S. with illustrator Rama Duaji, who hails from a Syrian immigrant family, and had already held a ceremony. However, Mamdani's camp clarified that he returned to Uganda to celebrate his marriage in his hometown.
Mamdani, a Muslim of Indian descent, was born in Kampala, Uganda, and moved to New York at the age of 7, later acquiring U.S. citizenship in 2018.
However, criticism is mounting regarding the appropriateness of the timing of the event. With Uganda currently in a national mourning period, known as Okukungubaga, following the death of former Supreme Court Justice George Kanyeihamba, holding a large-scale celebration for personal reasons is viewed as culturally insensitive and demonstrates a lack of understanding of local sentiments.
A nearby resident who witnessed the wedding told the New York Post in an interview, "It's like throwing a party next to a funeral while the funeral isn't even over," adding that Mamdani's ability to empathize is questionable.
This controversy also clashes with evaluations of Mamdani's political identity. He has defined himself as a "democratic socialist," advocating for progressive policies such as ▲ free public transportation ▲ free education ▲ rent freezes ▲ and the introduction of a wealth tax to garner support from New York voters. However, this incident has raised concerns that it exposes a disconnect from the political philosophy he has consistently promoted.
Meanwhile, Mamdani is said to be returning to New York later this month. Following his victory over former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in last month's Democratic primary, Mamdani is set to face off against sitting Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, in the November general election.