The Minister of Land and Air Transport, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye, has strongly criticized recent remarks made by Ousmane Sonko regarding Touba, the holy city of the Mouride Brotherhood. During a visit to the city, the leader of the Pastef party alleged that stolen funds had been laundered there. Speaking on national television, Minister Ndiaye dismissed these claims as a profound disrespect toward Touba’s residents and the sacred traditions of Mouridism, emphasizing that such accusations betray a fundamental misunderstanding of the city’s spiritual and moral foundations.
« To equate Touba with a hub for illicit money is not just an insult—it is a blatant disregard for the dignity and values instilled by Serigne Touba himself, » Ndiaye stated. « The people of Touba are known for their unwavering integrity and devotion, not for involvement in corruption. Those who make such claims reveal only their own ignorance. » He further noted that the absence of key local leaders during Sonko’s visit signaled broader disapproval of the narrative he promoted.
Government’s commitment to Touba and national unity
In his response, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye praised the leadership of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, whom he described as deeply attuned to the needs of Touba’s citizens. « The President understands the significance of this sacred city and its people. His administration is actively addressing their concerns with concrete solutions, » he remarked. The minister also extended his support to Prime Minister Mouhamadou Al Amine Lo, commending his efforts to resolve long-standing administrative challenges under the President’s guidance.
Addressing the nation, Ndiaye urged Senegalese citizens to set aside political divisions and focus on collective progress. He reaffirmed his confidence in President Faye, portraying him as a leader of unshakable integrity, driven solely by the country’s advancement. « His sole mission is the well-being of Senegal. Despite relentless attempts to undermine him, he remains steadfast in his commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of all Senegalese and steering the nation toward sustainable development and prosperity, » the minister concluded.
