Community Backlash: A Bangladeshi Leader’s Rejection of Zohran Mamdani

A prominent Bangladeshi business leader from Queens has publicly distanced himself from socialist lawmaker Zohran Mamdani, stirring conversation about the implications of his policy positions within local communities. Fahad Solaiman, a key figure in the Jackson Heights Bangladeshi Business Association, has urged his community to block Mamdani’s candidacy for mayor, particularly criticizing his stance on prostitution.

Community Concerns

During a recent service at the Darul Hidaya Mosque, Solaiman voiced his concerns, stating, “Supporting prostitution means supporting human trafficking.” His remarks reflect a broader anxiety among residents regarding the visible impact of prostitution on areas like Roosevelt Avenue, which has gained notoriety for street-level sex work. Solaiman emphasized the challenges of navigating the neighborhood, particularly after sunset, when the situation becomes most pronounced.

The Shift in Support

Previously, Solaiman had backed Mamdani primarily due to his stance on Palestine; however, as the election has progressed, his support has waned. “The more he moves forward, the more we are seeing it; he’s a hypocrite. That’s the reason we took ourselves out,” Solaiman remarked, indicating a shift in sentiment among some local leaders who once supported Mamdani.

Endorsing Andrew Cuomo

Solaiman, who now plans to vote for former governor Andrew Cuomo, delivered a call to action at the mosque, encouraging congregants to follow his lead. “I am proud to endorse Andrew Cuomo for mayor, and will work hand in hand with him to unite our city, rather than divide us,” stated Imam Qazi Qayyoon, reinforcing the call for community support behind Cuomo’s campaign.

Cuomo has positioned himself against Mamdani’s proposals by advocating for stricter policies on prostitution, claiming that allowing such practices would harm the community. His views have garnered attention given recent discussions on how opposition to decriminalization aligns with broader social concerns, particularly among religious and conservative constituents.

Mamdani’s Legislative Record

In contrast to Cuomo, Mamdani has co-sponsored legislation aiming to decriminalize prostitution between consenting adults, which would eliminate arrests for both sex workers and clients. While his support for decriminalization remains steadfast, he has faced criticism for being vague about his intentions as the election nears.

With the stakes high, Mamdani’s stance has become a focal point in the election. His critics argue that his policies could potentially lead to an increase in sex work, sparking further conflict within the community. “While prostitution is prohibited under Islamic moral teachings—which Mamdani acknowledges—he maintains his position as a matter of justice and public policy,” some community members expressed, highlighting the tension between progressive policies and traditional views.

The Role of Identity Politics

Solaiman has also challenged Mamdani on issues of identity, suggesting that the lawmaker struggles to navigate his multifaceted identity. “When he comes to South Asian communities, he’s saying he’s South Asian. When he comes to African American communities, he’s saying he was born in Uganda; he’s African. So this guy doesn’t know what he is,” Solaiman argued, urging voters to consider authenticity and representation in choosing their candidates.

Cuomo’s Campaign Dynamics

Cuomo’s campaign finds itself at a crossroads as it seeks to reclaim ground after Mamdani’s surprising primary victory in June. Currently trailing by 20% in polls, Cuomo has re-emphasized his hardline stance on sex work as a critical issue to galvanize support among skeptical constituents.

In a rapidly changing political landscape, the dynamics between community leaders, their constituents, and candidates like Mamdani and Cuomo will play essential roles in determining the direction of the mayoral race. As public sentiments shift, so too do the debates around policy and identity, reflecting broader societal concerns that resonate far beyond the confines of local politics.