The descendants of Serigne Touba have escalated their stance against opposition leader Ousmane Sonko by declaring him persona non grata in Touba. The group, which filed a defamation complaint following Sonko’s recent remarks about alleged illicit funds circulating in the holy city, argued that his presence during upcoming religious events would be inappropriate.

Why the collective is demanding Sonko’s exclusion from Touba

Mokhtar Bousso, spokesperson for the collective, emphasized that Sonko’s comments constituted a severe disrespect to Touba and its spiritual founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. « Anyone who questions Serigne Touba must refrain from setting foot in Touba,» he declared on national radio. « If he truly revered Serigne Touba and his teachings, he would never have made such statements about Touba. »

The collective highlighted Touba’s pivotal role in Senegal’s development across economic, social, and moral dimensions. « Everyone knows Touba has consistently contributed to the nation’s progress,» Bousso noted. « Ousmane Sonko must respect this legacy and, above all, honor the founder of the Mouride brotherhood. »

Controversial remarks spark outrage ahead of Grand Magal

Sonko’s allegations of ‘dirty money’ circulating in Touba drew particular condemnation, especially with the Grand Magal—a major religious festival—just days away. Bousso condemned the timing, stating, « To come to Touba and speak of dirty money is a grave insult to Serigne Touba. He has no place attending the Magal, even if Touba’s doors remain open to all. »

The spokesperson urged Sonko to reflect deeply on his actions. « It is for Ousmane Sonko to introspect and decide whether he should return to Touba after his remarks. If he believes illicit funds have been injected into Touba, he should stay away,» he asserted. « Touba is the heart of Mouridism. Choosing this moment—when talibés are preparing for the Grand Magal—to make such claims shows a lack of respect for the event’s success. »