Lessons from Zohran Mamdani’s NYC

Zohran Mamdani’s stunning upset in the New York City mayoral primary offers a powerful case study for societies yearning for a level playing field in politics—especially in authoritarian contexts like Pakistan. His campaign, marked by creativity, grassroots energy, and an unapologetic progressive agenda, overcame entrenched establishment power and media skepticism to deliver a political earthquake. For Pakistan, where the struggle for democratic space is ongoing and the political field remains heavily tilted by military and elite interests, Mamdani’s example is both instructive and inspiring.

What Did Zohran Mamdani Do Differently?

1. Harnessed Creative Communication and Social Media

• Mamdani’s campaign was defined by viral, visually engaging videos and a savvy use of new media platforms, which helped him reach young and diverse audiences.
• He explained complex policies (like ranked choice voting) in relatable ways, even using humor and multiple languages to connect with different communities.

2. Built a Grassroots Movement

• His campaign was powered by small donors and volunteers, not big money or party machinery.
• He focused on door-to-door outreach, public appearances, and direct engagement with communities ignored by traditional politics.

3. Centered the Message on Everyday Issues

• Mamdani’s platform addressed affordability, housing, public transport, and universal childcare—issues that resonated with working-class and marginalized voters.
• He didn’t shy away from bold proposals, instead framing them as practical solutions to real problems.

4. Took on the Establishment—And Won

• Despite facing a better-known, better-funded opponent backed by party elites, Mamdani never diluted his message or tried to appease power brokers.
• He turned attacks on his “inexperience” into strengths, projecting authenticity and optimism.

Why Is This Relevant for Pakistan?

Pakistan’s political landscape is dominated by entrenched elites, military influence, and systemic barriers to fair competition. The 2024 general elections were marred by manipulation, censorship, and the systematic sidelining of Imran Khan,the most popular Pak stani leader .

Calls for a “level playing field” are frequent, but practical steps remain elusive.

How Can Pakistanis Emulate Mamdani’s Success?

A. Reclaim the Narrative with Creative Communication

• Use social media and independent digital platforms to bypass state-controlled media and reach the public directly, especially youth and urban voters.
• Develop content that is visually compelling, accessible, and rooted in local languages and culture—explaining policies, exposing injustices, and mobilizing support.

B. Build Genuine Grassroots Movements

• Organize at the neighborhood and community level, focusing on issues that matter to ordinary Pakistanis: cost of living, jobs, education, and justice.
• Encourage small donations and volunteerism to reduce reliance on wealthy patrons or compromised institutions.

C. Prioritize Issues That Unite, Not Divide

• Center campaigns on universally felt problems—affordability, access to services, corruption, and dignity—rather than elite power struggles or personality politics.
• Offer clear, practical solutions and communicate how change is possible, even against the odds.

D. Demand and Defend Institutional Reforms

• Advocate for De-militarisation of politics, transparent, independent electoral commissions and judicial processes.
• Push for the depoliticization of the judiciary, media, and law enforcement—essential steps for a fair political arena.

E. Mobilize International and Civil Society Pressure

• Leverage support from international organizations, diaspora networks, and civil society to spotlight abuses and demand accountability.
• Document and publicize electoral manipulation and repression.