Shah J. Choudhury
New York, October 18 — A recent New York Post investigation has sparked controversy surrounding New York Assemblyman and potential mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, after reports surfaced of his association with a Brooklyn imam once linked to radical rhetoric.
According to the Post, Mamdani has been seen at community events alongside Imam Siraj Wahhaj, a prominent Muslim leader who decades ago called for what he described as a “peaceful jihad march” of 10,000 men through New York City.
In his sermon, Wahhaj reportedly said:
“I pray one day Allah will bless us to raise an army, and I’m serious about this. Just march — march through the city of New York … let them hear it 24 hours a day until the whole city can’t sleep.”
Though Wahhaj later clarified that his remarks referred to a nonviolent demonstration of faith, his earlier reputation and name being mentioned as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing have kept him under public scrutiny for decades.
Following the release of the photo showing Mamdani with Wahhaj, critics have raised concerns about the assemblyman’s judgment and political alliances. Questions have emerged over whether public figures should associate themselves with individuals carrying such controversial histories.
So far, Mamdani has not issued any formal response to the report.
Political analysts suggest that the issue could impact his public image and campaign, as perceptions of ideological alignment or moral endorsement often play a significant role in New York’s diverse political landscape.
Source: New York Post, October 18, 2025
