A collective representing the descendants of Serigne Touba has escalated its stance against opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, declaring him ‘persona non grata’ in Touba. The move follows a defamation complaint filed after Sonko’s remarks about alleged illicit financial flows in the holy city. The group now insists he should refrain from visiting Touba, including during the upcoming Grand Magal pilgrimage.

Speaking on RFM radio, the collective’s spokesperson, Mokhtar Bousso, emphasized that Sonko’s comments disrespect both Touba and its revered founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. “Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s legacy must never set foot in Touba,” Bousso asserted. “If he truly respected Serigne Touba’s teachings, he would never have made such statements about the city.”

The spokesperson underscored Touba’s pivotal role in Senegal’s economic, social, and moral development. “Touba has always been a pillar of progress in this nation. Sonko must honor its significance and, above all, respect its founder,” he stated.

Controversial remarks spark outrage

The collective condemned Sonko’s allegations of “dirty money” circulating in Touba, calling them not only offensive but also incompatible with participation in the Grand Magal. “To come to Touba and accuse it of harboring illicit funds is an affront to Serigne Touba,” Bousso argued. “He has no place here during the Magal, though we know Serigne Touba’s doors are open to all.”

Bousso urged Sonko to reflect deeply on his actions. “It’s time for introspection. After claiming dirty money flows through Touba, he should reconsider setting foot in the city again,” he said. The timing of these remarks, just days before the Grand Magal, has further fueled tensions. “Touba embodies the soul of Mouridism. To make such claims during preparations for this sacred event is, in my view, a deliberate attempt to undermine its success,” he concluded.