UgandaToday: Watch Video New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani Responds in Luganda to Journalist’s Question on US Deportees
In a rare and symbolic moment that electrified Ugandans at home and abroad, newly elected New York Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani responded in Luganda to a question posed by Ugandan journalist Remmy Bahati on the controversial issue of Uganda’s acceptance of deportees expelled from the United States under President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
The exchange, which has since gone viral, took place during a media interaction in New York when Bahati directly asked Mayor Mamdani what he had to say about Uganda’s role in receiving Ugandans who were forcefully deported by the US.
Before delving into his response, Mamdani broke into Luganda with a powerful salutation that instantly struck a chord with Ugandans:
“Oli otya nyabo, ki ekiriwo nyabo, ndi Munna Uganda,” he roared, proudly identifying himself as a son of the Ugandan soil despite leading one of the world’s most prominent cities.
A Cultural Statement Beyond Politics
The moment went beyond politics—it was cultural, symbolic, and deeply emotional. For many Ugandans in the diaspora, hearing their native language spoken on such a global platform by a leader of Mamdani’s stature was a reaffirmation of identity.
His opening words were not just a greeting to the journalist but a reminder that Uganda’s heritage continues to echo on the international stage. The deliberate choice to use Luganda was also a subtle nod to inclusivity, affirming that regardless of status, the shared roots of identity remain unshaken.
Deportation Question Still Sensitive
Uganda’s acceptance of deportees from the US remains a sensitive topic that has attracted criticism from human rights activists and sections of the public. Many argue that the policy exposes vulnerable Ugandans to social and economic uncertainty once they are returned home, often after years of living abroad.
Mamdani, while tactful in his response, used the moment to emphasize his Ugandan identity and the shared struggles of immigrants in balancing opportunities abroad with questions of belonging.
Who Is Zohran Mamdani?
Zohran Mamdani, born in Kampala to renowned academic Mahmood Mamdani and filmmaker Mira Nair, made history by becoming the first Ugandan-born politician to ascend to the mayoral seat of New York. His victory was celebrated both in the diaspora and back home, where many see him as a bridge between Uganda and the international community.
His Luganda outburst now cements him not just as a political figure but also as a cultural ambassador proudly showcasing Uganda to the world.
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