NYC Mayor-Elect Picks Lawyer Who Defended Al-Qaeda Terrorist for Top Post
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New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has appointed Ramzi Kassem to a senior advisory role. The announcement was made on Tuesday.
Kassem is a law professor and civil rights attorney. His work has included defending Ahmed al-Darbi, a convicted al-Qaeda terrorist. Al-Darbi pleaded guilty to planning an attack on a French oil tanker.
Mamdani's office called Kassem a "powerful advocate" for marginalized communities. The mayor-elect stated the appointment aligns with his commitment to civil rights.
The choice is controversial due to Kassem's past client. Critics often question the ethics of representing individuals accused of terrorism.
Kassem has also represented prisoners at Guantanamo Bay and immigrant detainees. His supporters argue this work protects fundamental legal rights for all.