MAMDANI SWORN IN AS NEW YORK MAYOR

First Muslim leader of America's biggest city places hand on Quran to take oath

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Zohran Mamdani became mayor of New York City just after midnight yesterday, taking the oath of office at a historic, decommissioned subway station in Manhattan.

Mamdani, a Democrat, was sworn in as the first Muslim leader of America's biggest city, placing his hand on a Quran as he took his oath.

"This is truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime," Mamdani said in a brief speech.

An original city subway

The private ceremony, administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a political ally, took place at the old City Hall station, one of the city's original subway stops that is known for its stunning arched ceilings.

In Mamdani's first remarks as mayor, he said the old subway station was a "testament to the importance of public transit to the vitality, the health and the legacy of our city" as he announced the appointment of his new Department of Transportation commissioner, Mike Flynn.

The new mayor then closed: "Thank you all so much, now I will see you later," he said with a smile before heading up a flight of stairs.