Ousmane Sonko’s touba address: a sharp rebuke for president Bassirou Diomaye Faye

In a powerful statement delivered from Touba on Sunday, July 12, 2026, coinciding with the inauguration of his party’s local headquarters, the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, escalated his criticism against the President of the Republic. Denouncing what he characterized as a “feverish” management of state affairs, Sonko openly questioned the conduct of Bassirou Diomaye Faye. He further issued a warning, threatening to systematically refer any future legislation to the Constitutional Council, effectively aiming to block presidential initiatives.

Addressing his dedicated supporters, and invoking the profound legacy of integrity associated with Mouridism, Ousmane Sonko painted a grim picture of the current executive branch. Echoing persistent rumors of internal divisions that have circulated in recent months, the former Prime Minister lambasted President Faye, portraying him as isolated and susceptible to external influences. Sonko explicitly accused the head of state of being a captive to certain factions, including elements within the opposition, who he believes are encouraging him to distance himself from his long-time mentor.