Mamdani nominates Nadia Shihata as commissioner for the Department of Investigation.

Mayor Mamdani has announced the nomination of Nadia Shihata to serve as the commissioner of the Department of Investigation (DOI), marking a significant step in the administration’s efforts to address corruption in local government. Shihata, a seasoned legal professional with over a decade of experience in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, brings a wealth of expertise to this crucial position. Her background includes serving as one of the lead prosecutors in the high-profile case against R&B musician R. Kelly, which has garnered national attention.

The DOI plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of city operations, with a mandate to identify and eliminate corruption, fraud, and waste within government agencies. At a recent press conference at City Hall, Mayor Mamdani emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency and ethical governance, declaring zero tolerance for self-enrichment or corruption within his office. This statement is particularly poignant in light of recent corruption scandals that have troubled the previous administration.

In addition to her time as a federal prosecutor, Shihata also held the position of deputy chief in the public integrity section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. More recently, she has operated a boutique law firm focusing on civil rights and sexual misconduct cases. In her remarks at the press conference, she expressed that leading the Department of Investigation would be a “continuation and expansion” of her previous work, highlighting her dedication to public service.

If confirmed by the City Council, Shihata would make history as the first woman of color to lead the DOI, a notable milestone in the ongoing efforts to diversify leadership within the city’s oversight bodies. Her nomination comes on the heels of Jocelyn Strauber, the former DOI commissioner, who resigned last month amid a search for new leadership that included a comprehensive review of potential candidates. Under Strauber’s stewardship, the DOI investigated former Mayor Eric Adams and his administration, contributing to a broader investigation involving the FBI related to his campaign fundraising practices.

Additionally, the City Council affirmed Mayor Mamdani’s choice for corporation counsel, Steve Banks. Banks, who previously served as an attorney with the Legal Aid Society and has experience in the de Blasio administration, will step into this integral role during a period marked by challenges, including threats from the Trump administration regarding federal funding and immigration policy.

Mamdani’s nominations signal a significant shift in the governance approach of New York City, prioritizing accountability and ethical leadership to restore public trust in city institutions.