Ousmane sonko’s touba address: allegations of stolen funds and a challenge to president faye


Ousmane Sonko’s recent visit to the holy cities of Touba and Mbacké provided a crucial platform for the political leader, enabling him to deliver a series of impactful addresses. Following the launch event for the party’s membership card sales, the Pastef leader convened another significant gathering in Ngacc. There, he launched into a sharp critique of certain political figures, accusing them of pledging allegiance to the head of state solely to secure influential positions. He asserted that these individuals are “scrambling for ministerial posts within the Republic,” a behavior he deemed fundamentally at odds with Pastef’s core principles.

Sonko contrasted this perceived opportunism with the unwavering ethics of his own ministers, stating, “A Pastef minister does not steal, nor does he over-invoice contracts. If their honor is compromised, they resign.” He reinforced Pastef’s identity, adding, “There’s no point in possessing all the wealth if one has to bow down when passing before others. We are people of principle.”

A particularly startling revelation from the Pastef leader concerned the alleged transfer of misappropriated public funds to the holy city. “Recently, money has been poured into Touba. This is the nation’s money, and it is stolen money,” he declared emphatically. Sonko clarified that these substantial funds were “not intended for politics” but were instead being used to satisfy “political demands.” This statement is poised to ignite a fierce controversy, indirectly raising questions about the management of relations between the government and the religious community.

The climax of his address was a direct challenge aimed at President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Ousmane Sonko recounted remarks he attributed to the head of state, reportedly directed at general directors affiliated with Pastef: “You cannot be my general directors and simultaneously work towards the election of another person in 2029.”

In response to this perceived warning, Sonko retorted, “If he wishes, let him dismiss all Pastef general directors starting this Wednesday.” He was quick to remind listeners that these executives “had professions and earned significantly more, for the majority of them,” prior to their appointments, implying their professional independence and lack of reliance on these current roles.

The National Assembly leader further criticized the President’s stance, suggesting that President Faye should prioritize “other concerns” rather than attempting to mold Pastef leaders into “messiahs.” He concluded with a severe caution regarding a perceived wave of appointments, stating, “He will sink this country with these general directors he is haphazardly recruiting.” This declaration signals a clear and public divergence, indicating that the relationship between Sonko and Diomaye Faye appears more strained than ever.