Senegalese descendants of Serigne Touba declare Ousmane Sonko persona non grata in Touba
A group representing the descendants of Serigne Touba has escalated its stance against opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. The collective has filed a defamation complaint following his remarks alleging the circulation of “dirty money” in Touba. The group now asserts that Sonko should no longer set foot in the holy city—even during the upcoming Grand Magal pilgrimage.
Mokhtar Bousso, spokesperson for the collective, emphasized that Sonko’s remarks represent a clear disrespect toward Touba and its founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. In a radio interview, Bousso declared, “Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s authority should never enter Touba. If Sonko truly respected the teachings and legacy of Serigne Touba, he would never have made such statements about the city.”
Touba’s role in national development under scrutiny
The collective underscored Touba’s historic contributions to Senegal, spanning economic, social, and moral dimensions. Bousso insisted that Sonko’s allegations about illicit funds in Touba are incompatible with the values of the Grand Magal. He stated, “Claiming that dirty money circulates in Touba while preparing to attend the Grand Magal is an affront to Serigne Touba’s legacy. He has no place in Touba during this sacred event, even if the city remains open to all.”
An appeal for self-reflection
Bousso called on Sonko to reflect deeply on his actions. He argued that the timing of these remarks, just days before the Grand Magal, demonstrates a deliberate lack of respect for the pilgrimage. “Touba is the spiritual heart of the Mouride brotherhood. To make such statements at this critical moment shows a disregard for the event’s significance,” he concluded.
