Ramzi Kassem Appointed as NYC Chief Counsel by Zohran Mamdani

Introduction to the New Appointment

New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced on Tuesday the selection of lawyer Ramzi Kassem as New York City’s chief counsel, the highest legal position in the city. Kassem will officially begin his role when Mamdani takes office on January 1.

Kassem’s Background and Past Work

Kassem has a notable legal history, including representing Ahmed al-Darbi in a terrorism case linked to al-Qaeda. This past case involved significant events, as al-Darbi pleaded guilty in 2014 for conspiracy to bomb the French oil tanker MV Limburg off the coast of Yemen, which resulted in civilian casualties. Following his conviction in 2017, he was transferred to Saudi Arabian custody in 2018 under the Trump administration, according to reports from Fox News.

Kassem’s Advocacy and Legal Contributions

Kassem is recognized not just for his legal battles but also for his advocacy work. He co-founded and currently co-directs CLEAR (Creating Law Enforcement Accountability & Responsibility) at the City University of New York School of Law. This organization focuses on providing legal defense for students detained by ICE and supporting individuals at risk of deportation. In addition, Kassem served as a Senior Policy Advisor under President Joe Biden, focusing on immigration policies.

Ramzi Kassem’s Personal Connection to NYC

Mamdani warmly welcomed Kassem, emphasizing the significance of his appointment. Kassem, an immigrant and proud resident of Harlem, expressed his gratitude, calling it a “call of duty to serve the city that I’ve called home.” His appointment is seen as an important move towards promoting equity and accountability within the city’s legal framework.

Recent Legal Cases Involving Kassem

Advocacy for Mahmoud Khalil

In 2025, Kassem represented Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and anti-Israel activist who was arrested by ICE for his alleged involvement in leading antisemitic protests on campus. Though Khalil has been released, his legal situation remains ongoing, showcasing Kassem’s commitment to supporting marginalized communities.

Continued Impact at CUNY

Most recently, Kassem has served as an administrator at the City University of New York School of Law, where he played an integral role in representing immigrants detained by the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. His track record highlights a strong dedication to legal advocacy and social justice.

Conclusion

As Ramzi Kassem prepares to take on the role of New York City’s chief counsel, his extensive background in legal advocacy and commitment to serving the community promise a new era under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s administration. Kassem’s experience and dedication to justice will be critical in shaping the city’s legal landscape.