Legal action initiated against ousmane sonko over touba “dirty money” remarks

A formal complaint lodged with the prosecutor
 
The controversial statement attributed to Ousmane Sonko regarding the alleged influx of “dirty money” into the revered city of Touba has now escalated into a judicial matter.
 
On July 14, 2026, the Collectif des petits-fils de Serigne Touba formally requested a full investigation by sending a letter to the Public Prosecutor at the High Court of Dakar.
 
Official records confirm the complaint’s submission, bearing a prosecutor’s office stamp dated July 15, 2026.
 
Serigne Modou Maroun Niang and Serigne Mourtalla Bousso are the signatories of this legal filing.
 
Sonko’s alleged comments at the core of the petition
 
According to the plaintiffs, Ousmane Sonko allegedly declared during the inauguration of the PASTEF party headquarters that “dirty money has entered the holy city of Touba.”
 
The signatories contend that such an assertion could significantly damage Touba’s honor, reputation, and public image, as well as undermine the dignity of its residents.
 
They further argue that these remarks risk discrediting the religious city and casting a general shadow of suspicion over its moral and spiritual integrity.
 
In their detailed argument, they emphasize that Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba founded Touba on fundamental principles of faith, integrity, diligence, justice, and strict adherence to the teachings of Prophet Mohamed.
 
Demand for Ousmane Sonko’s hearing
 
The plaintiffs are urging the prosecutor to promptly initiate an inquiry to ascertain the precise meaning, basis, and full implications of the statements attributed to Ousmane Sonko.
 
They also seek his formal audition, where he would be compelled to clarify his remarks and provide any supporting evidence for his claims.
 
Furthermore, the Collectif insists that all necessary investigations be conducted to either confirm the veracity or expose the unfounded nature of the accusations made.
 
Calls for prosecution “if facts warrant”
 
In their petition, the signatories explicitly request that legal proceedings be initiated should the investigation’s findings justify such action.
 
They specifically cite potential offenses related to defamation, the dissemination of false information, or any other infractions punishable under current laws.
 
However, it is important to note that at this juncture, this remains a request for an investigation, and no criminal charges suggested by the plaintiffs have yet been formally adopted by a judicial authority.
 
Video recordings cited as potential evidence
 
The individuals who filed the complaint assert their ability to furnish various forms of evidence to substantiate their claims.
 
They specifically mention video recordings of the statements, their transcriptions, relevant press publications, and any other documents deemed capable of shedding light on the truth of the matter.