Zohran Mamdani Faces Backlash Over Photo with Anti-LGBT Ugandan Official

NEW YORK, NY — Zohran Mamdani, a leading candidate for mayor of New York City, is facing criticism for a photo taken with Ugandan politician Rebecca Kadaga, who has supported severe anti-LGBT laws in Uganda.

The photo, which surfaced recently, shows a smiling Mamdani alongside Kadaga, who has been vocal about her efforts to implement harsh penalties for homosexuality, including life imprisonment. Kadaga shared the image on her social media in July, expressing her support for Mamdani’s campaign.

Mamdani’s campaign quickly responded after the photo went viral, stating he was unaware of Kadaga’s controversial history regarding LGBT rights. “If he was aware she was the architect of this horrific attack on queer Ugandans, he would not have done so,” said spokesperson Dora Pekec.

In 2012, Kadaga famously described her support for a draconian anti-homosexuality law as a “Christmas gift” to her constituents. The legislation, which called for life imprisonment for consensual same-sex conduct, faced international backlash but was passed despite global condemnation.

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running against Mamdani, criticized him for his association with Kadaga. “Mamdani now claims he didn’t know who she was. That is laughable,” Cuomo said, emphasizing Kadaga’s notorious reputation as an anti-LGBTQ figure.

Gay activists are divided on Mamdani’s explanation. Chris Lynn, co-founder of the Stonewall Democratic Club, dismissed Mamdani’s defense, stating, “He’s either a liar or incredibly ill-informed.” Conversely, others within the LGBT community have defended Mamdani, highlighting his advocacy for pro-LGBT legislation during his time in the state Assembly.

Human rights organizations have reported increased discrimination against LGBT individuals in Uganda since the Anti-Homosexuality Act was enacted. “For the last two years, LGBT Ugandans have suffered a range of abuses because of the government’s decision to legislate hate against them,” stated Oryem Nyeko, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch.

The backlash against Mamdani comes as he prepares for the general election on November 4, where he will compete against Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.