Zohran Mamdani Smiles in Photo with Ugandan Anti-LGBTQ+ Law Advocate

Zohran Mamdani, a leading candidate for New York City Mayor, recently faced scrutiny after a photograph surfaced showing him with Rebecca Kadaga, a controversial Ugandan politician known for her staunch anti-LGBTQ+ stance. The two met in July during Mamdani’s visit to Uganda, coinciding with celebrations for his wedding.

Photo Sparks Outrage

The image, shared by Kadaga on social media, shows a smiling Mamdani alongside Kadaga and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, a respected professor at Columbia University. Kadaga, a former Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, has long campaigned for draconian anti-LGBTQ+ laws, including the infamous legislation that calls for life imprisonment for individuals engaged in same-sex relationships.

Context of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation in Uganda

• 2012: Kadaga refers to a harsh anti-gay law as a “Christmas gift” for her supporters.
• 2024: Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment for same-sex conduct.
• Initial draft of the law proposed capital punishment, but this was removed following international backlash.
• Kadaga has served as First Deputy Prime Minister since 2021.

In response to the photo’s resurgence, Mamdani’s campaign stated he was unaware of Kadaga’s history as a champion of anti-gay policies. A campaign spokesperson emphasized Mamdani’s commitment to universal human rights, asserting that he would never intentionally associate with someone supporting such harsh legislation against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Criticism from Rivals and Activists

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, also running for mayor, criticized Mamdani’s explanation, calling it “laughable.” Cuomo underscored that any serious public official should be aware of Kadaga’s notorious reputation, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ rights.

Some LGBTQ+ activists expressed outrage over Mamdani’s friendly demeanor toward Kadaga. Chris Lynn, co-founder of the Stonewall Democratic Club, suggested that Mamdani must be either misleading or dangerously uninformed. However, others defended him, citing his legislative support for pro-LGBTQ+ measures during his time in the state Assembly.

Human Rights Concerns in Uganda

Reports by human rights organizations have highlighted increasing discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda since the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. Human Rights Watch criticized the Ugandan government for fostering an environment of hatred and misinformation, which has led to heightened violence against LGBTQ+ persons.

As Mamdani approaches the general election on November 4, public scrutiny surrounding his ties to Uganda may influence his campaign narrative. With deep familial connections to Uganda, he represents a potential cultural bridge—yet this situation also raises questions about the implications of his perceived alignment with figures like Kadaga.

As the election approaches, how Mamdani addresses this controversy may significantly affect his bid to become New York City’s next mayor.