Picture this: A young man raised in the vibrant neighborhoods of Kampala's East Coast, once dreaming of becoming a top-notch journalist, now poised to become the mayor of one of the world's most iconic cities. It's a tale so improbable, so full of heart, that it has Ugandans everywhere glued to their screens, holding their collective breath. But here's where it gets intriguing – could this crossover story redefine what it means to be a true global citizen? Stick around to discover how one 'Buzigan' is bridging continents and sparking debates along the way.
By the time the sun rose over New York this morning, conversations in Kampala's group chats had already escalated into a flurry of five voice notes, each buzzing with anticipation and disbelief. In the midst of a campaign rally, an everyday New Yorker casually mentions, 'I used to call Muyenga home,' and Zohran Mamdani fires back with a grin, 'Ah, I grew up in Buziga!' For those unfamiliar, these aren't just random spots on the map – they're key parts of Kampala's so-called 'East Coast,' a trendy, affluent area encompassing places like Muyenga, Kabalaga, Konge, Buziga, Munyonyo, and Gaba. Back in my day, my crew and I, all residents of that side of town, proudly dubbed ourselves the 'East Coast' gang. It's a badge of belonging, tied to a lifestyle that's both relaxed and aspirational, much like how coastal vibes evoke freedom and opportunity in many cultures.
Now, we're playfully asserting shared ownership over Zohran, who, in a delightful twist of fate, also resides on the East Coast of the United States. From Kampala's East Coast 'Buziga' to New York's bustling shores – it's like two worlds colliding in the best possible way, with game recognizing game on a global scale!
Fast-forward to today, and that same soft-spoken, inquisitive intern – as vividly recounted by Angelo Izama in Roduza's captivating Reuters piece – who once nervously entered the Daily Monitor newsroom clutching a notebook, is now facing the ultimate headline of his career. But this time, he's not chasing quotes; he's the quote that every major news outlet is scrambling to cover. Meet the 34-year-old Muslim man, rooted in Buziga, who might just clinch the title of Mayor of New York City. It's a journey from the bustling newsrooms of Namuwongo to the rattling blue subway lines of Queens, all driven by an unyielding curiosity and a stubborn optimism that refuses to fade.
Think about it: The boy who religiously briefed his father, Professor Mamdani, on the day's current events each evening, has evolved into the potential lead story on every bulletin from New York to Namanve. That aspiring 'top reporter' could very well transform into the 'top story' himself. And this is the part most people miss – it's not just about personal ambition; it's a testament to how a blend of cultural roots and relentless drive can shatter barriers, inspiring anyone from humble beginnings to aim higher.
As for Ugandans scattered across the globe? From Arua to Zzana, or Astoria to the Bronx, the excitement is palpable. Relatives in Boston have whipped up celebratory feasts, while those in Masaka feign indifference while obsessively checking social media updates. The 'East Coast' squad is already brainstorming victory captions, like 'From Buziga's hills to City Hall's halls – Ki ekiriwo, New York City?' (For non-Luganda speakers, that's a playful shout-out meaning 'It's ours now!'). But let's be real: History isn't a foregone conclusion; it demands action from voters to make it happen.
So, if you're a resident of New York City and haven't cast your ballot yet, consider this your urgent call to action. Bundle up in your jacket, grab your MetroCard, and carry with you your aspirations, your uncertainties, and your hopes – then make your way to the polling station. Queue up with the same determination you'd muster for snagging a Rolex watch at 2 a.m. in Wandegeya's lively markets. Drop that vote and contribute to crafting this extraordinarily unlikely, profoundly Ugandan, yet authentically New York narrative.
On this day, New York is scripting its own headline. But here's where it gets controversial – is electing someone with deep Ugandan ties a bold step toward inclusive leadership, or does it risk overlooking local priorities in favor of global charm? Some might argue it's a refreshing break from tradition, while others could see it as a distraction from pressing city issues. What do you think: Should international backgrounds be a strength or a potential liability in American politics? Share your thoughts in the comments below – do you support this cross-cultural journey, or does it raise red flags for you? Join the conversation and let's explore how stories like Zohran's could reshape our views on identity and ambition.
Today, New York pens its story. Don't merely observe it – become an active participant. #VoteZohran
ADAPTED FROM TWITTER | The writer is a public health specialist | @OyuluPatrick
‘East Coast’ ‘Buzigan’ on the Verge of Running New York!
By the time New York woke up this morning, Kampala group chats were already five voice notes deep.
Somewhere on the campaign trail, a random New Yorker says, “I used to live in Muyenga,” and @ZohranKMamdani replies “Oh, I… pic.twitter.com/Gpf7OfVWQw
— Patrick Oyulu (@OyuluPatrick) November 4, 2025
Tags: New York, Oyulu, Zohran Mamdani
