Collective of serigne touba’s descendants declares ousmane sonko persona non grata in touba
The collective of descendants of Serigne Touba has escalated its stance against Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party, by declaring him persona non grata in Touba. This decision follows a defamation complaint filed in response to Sonko’s remarks alleging the circulation of « dirty money » in the holy city.
Unprecedented condemnation of political figures in Touba
The collective, representing the grandchildren of Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, the founder of the Mouride brotherhood, has taken a firm stance against Ousmane Sonko. Their spokesperson, Mokhtar Bousso, emphasized that Sonko’s statements constitute a blatant disrespect toward Touba and its spiritual legacy.
« Anyone who questions Serigne Touba should never set foot in Touba, » Bousso declared during an interview. « If he truly respected Serigne Touba and his teachings, he would never have made such remarks about the holy city. »
Touba’s role in Senegal’s development
The collective argues that Touba has played a pivotal role in Senegal’s progress, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic, social, and moral fabric. « Everyone knows that Touba has always been a driving force behind the country’s development, » Bousso stressed. « Ousmane Sonko must respect Touba—and above all, the founder of Mouridism. »
In a scathing critique of Sonko’s timing, the spokesperson highlighted the irony of his allegations just days before the Grand Magal, a major annual pilgrimage in Touba. « Accusing Touba of harboring ‘dirty money’ during this sacred period is not just disrespectful—it shows a blatant disregard for the spiritual significance of the Grand Magal, » he asserted.
Calls for self-reflection
The collective’s stance is clear: Ousmane Sonko must reconsider his presence in Touba. « It’s time for him to reflect on whether he deserves to step foot in Touba again, » Bousso insisted. « If he genuinely believes that ‘dirty money’ circulates in Touba, then he has no place there. »
The declaration comes amid heightened tensions between political figures and religious leaders in Senegal, underscoring the deep intertwining of faith and public discourse in the country.