Days before the annual Grand Magal celebrations in Touba, Senegal’s National Assembly President Ousmane Sonko paid a traditional courtesy visit to the General Khalife of the Mouride brotherhood, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké. Leading a high-profile delegation of lawmakers and key Pastef party figures, he reaffirmed the deep ties between the state and the Mouride community amid recent public debates.
Honoring a spiritual and patriotic icon
In a heartfelt address before the revered patriarch, Sonko paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Serigne Touba, the founder of Mouridism. “Our joy and respect for Serigne Touba are boundless,” he stated, emphasizing the profound impact of his teachings and life journey. “He stands as a model for any leader aspiring to guide a nation. His vision embodies patriotism, sovereignty, and the unyielding pursuit of freedom through self-reliance.” These remarks resonate strongly with Sonko’s own political philosophy and core messaging.
Lessons from history: self-reliance over debt
Sonko also recounted a pivotal moment in the construction of the Great Mosque of Touba, highlighting Serigne Touba’s unwavering commitment to local initiative over foreign dependence. “A close associate recently shared with me that, when plans arose to build the mosque, Serigne Touba proposed that followers contribute just 140 francs each,” he explained. “He was told Europeans were willing to fund the project—but he refused. We all know the journey Touba has taken to become what it is today. Had our leaders followed his example, we wouldn’t be drowning in public debt,” he remarked, delivering a pointed reflection on fiscal responsibility.
Transparency and collective effort as pillars of governance
Citing the late spiritual leader Serigne Cheikh Gaindé Fatma, Sonko reiterated the importance of realistic expectations and transparent investment. “Ask what people can give, and invest wisely so all may see the results,” he quoted, framing it as a guiding principle for ethical, citizen-centered governance.
This visit follows a similar tradition observed days earlier, when President Bassirou Diomaye Faye also met with the Khalife ahead of the Grand Magal. For his part, Serigne Mountakha expressed strong approval of Sonko’s message, urging him to continue advocating for national unity and peace.
