Descendants of Serigne Touba declare Ousmane Sonko unwelcome in Touba

Collective of Serigne Touba’s descendants takes firm stance against Ousmane Sonko

A collective representing the descendants of Serigne Touba has escalated its opposition to Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party. Following a defamation complaint filed in response to his remarks about alleged financial irregularities in Touba, the group declared Sonko persona non grata in the holy city, including during the upcoming Grand Magal.

The decision reflects deep resentment toward Sonko’s statements, which the collective views as a direct insult to Touba and its spiritual founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba.

Rejection rooted in religious and cultural reverence

In a radio interview, Mokhtar Bousso, spokesperson for the collective, condemned Sonko’s comments as a blatant disregard for the sanctity of Touba and its teachings. « Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s legacy should never set foot in Touba,» he asserted. « If he truly respected Serigne Touba and his teachings, he would never have made such statements about the city. »

Bousso emphasized Touba’s pivotal role in Senegal’s development, spanning economic, humanitarian, and moral dimensions. « Everyone knows Touba has always contributed to the nation’s progress. Sonko must honor this legacy by respecting the founder of Mouridism,» he added.

Alleged financial remarks spark further outrage

The collective took particular issue with Sonko’s claim of ‘dirty money’ circulating in Touba, calling it incompatible with participation in the Grand Magal. « To come to Touba and accuse it of harboring illicit funds is an affront to Serigne Touba’s memory,» Bousso declared. « We believe he should not attend the Magal, though we acknowledge that Serigne Touba’s doors remain open to all. »

He urged Sonko to reflect deeply on his actions. « It’s time for Ousmane Sonko to look inward and decide if he deserves to return to Touba after his words. If he truly believes dirty money flows here, he has no place visiting. »

Timing of remarks draws sharp criticism

The collective also criticized the timing of Sonko’s statements, made just days before the Grand Magal. « Touba is the heart of Mouridism. To make such claims during this sacred period—when all talibés prepare for the Magal—shows a lack of support for this spiritual gathering,» Bousso concluded.