Zohran Mamdani's historic victory in New York City has sent waves of inspiration across the globe, with Ugandans particularly drawn to his message of hope and change. The 34-year-old leftist, born in Kampala in 1991, won over the hearts of many by promising a brighter future for those disillusioned with the status quo.
Mamdani's unexpected rise has resonated deeply with Ugandans, who are currently facing an authoritarian regime under President Yoweri Museveni. The 81-year-old leader is seeking a seventh term in January elections, sparking fears of a volatile transition and repressive conditions for opposition figures. Despite this, Mamdani's success serves as a powerful reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can make a difference.
"For many Ugandans, it's a big encouragement... to us here in Uganda that it's possible," said Joel Ssenyonyi, an opposition leader in Parliament. "Mamdani's success inspires us." While the road ahead may be long and challenging, Mamdani's victory has already drawn praise from politicians, academics, and ordinary Ugandans.
Entertainer Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, hailed Mamdani as a "beacon of hope" for those fighting for change in Uganda. "From Uganda, we celebrate and draw strength from your example... as we work to build a country where every citizen can realise their grandest dreams regardless of means and background."
The Mamdani family maintains strong ties with Kampala, where they have visited regularly. Zohran's father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a renowned political theorist who has worked at Makerere University. His son's success has sent a clear message: that investing in the youth is crucial for creating positive change.
As Anthony Kirabo, a 22-year-old psychology student, put it, "Seeing Zohran up there, I feel like I can also make it." This sentiment echoes the words of Okello Ogwang, an academic who has worked with Mahmood Mamdani. He urged Ugandans to invest in their youth, saying, "If we don't invest in our youth, we are wasting our time."
Zohran Mamdani's victory serves as a testament to the power of hope and determination. As he prepares to take office in New York City, his name is on the lips of Ugandans everywhere – a reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can shape the future of their countries and inspire positive change around the world.
Mamdani's unexpected rise has resonated deeply with Ugandans, who are currently facing an authoritarian regime under President Yoweri Museveni. The 81-year-old leader is seeking a seventh term in January elections, sparking fears of a volatile transition and repressive conditions for opposition figures. Despite this, Mamdani's success serves as a powerful reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can make a difference.
"For many Ugandans, it's a big encouragement... to us here in Uganda that it's possible," said Joel Ssenyonyi, an opposition leader in Parliament. "Mamdani's success inspires us." While the road ahead may be long and challenging, Mamdani's victory has already drawn praise from politicians, academics, and ordinary Ugandans.
Entertainer Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, hailed Mamdani as a "beacon of hope" for those fighting for change in Uganda. "From Uganda, we celebrate and draw strength from your example... as we work to build a country where every citizen can realise their grandest dreams regardless of means and background."
The Mamdani family maintains strong ties with Kampala, where they have visited regularly. Zohran's father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a renowned political theorist who has worked at Makerere University. His son's success has sent a clear message: that investing in the youth is crucial for creating positive change.
As Anthony Kirabo, a 22-year-old psychology student, put it, "Seeing Zohran up there, I feel like I can also make it." This sentiment echoes the words of Okello Ogwang, an academic who has worked with Mahmood Mamdani. He urged Ugandans to invest in their youth, saying, "If we don't invest in our youth, we are wasting our time."
Zohran Mamdani's victory serves as a testament to the power of hope and determination. As he prepares to take office in New York City, his name is on the lips of Ugandans everywhere – a reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can shape the future of their countries and inspire positive change around the world.