Hamtramck Mayor Sworn In After Delay

Muhith Mahmood is being sworn in as mayor of Hamtramck on Sunday, concluding a year-long dispute over 37 absentee ballots. The ceremony is scheduled for noon at the Hamtramck Community Center. CBS News Detroit is broadcasting the event live.

The Wayne County Board of Canvassers certified the previously uncounted votes earlier this week. This decision confirms that Mahmood defeated Adam Alharbi. The ballots were initially excluded because former Clerk Rana Faraj cited a break in the chain of custody.

In December 2025, the Board deadlocked 2-2 on whether to include the ballots. That vote left Alharbi as the declared winner by an 11-vote margin. He was sworn into office in January 2026.

Mahmood challenged the certification in court. He argued that administrative errors by election officials should not strip voters of their right to have ballots counted. A court order eventually permitted the counting of the disputed ballots.

A separate lawsuit filed by Alharbi delayed Mahmood's inauguration. Alharbi claimed Mahmood did not live in Hamtramck. A judge ruled that Mahmood is a resident and eligible for the position. Alharbi remained in the role until that ruling was finalized.

The swearing-in marks the end of a process that began in the 2025 general election. The new mayor will now lead the city's government.