Senegal’s religious leader urges unity between sonko and diomaye

During the Grand Magal of Touba celebration marking the exile of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, prominent religious figures addressed national issues. Among them, Serigne Modou Kara Mbacké—speaking from his Mermoz residence—called for reconciliation between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, emphasizing the need for them to prioritize the nation’s higher interests over their current tensions.

Addressing a large gathering of followers, the spiritual leader delivered a message of unity. “Their reconciliation should not be ruled out—they represent only a small fraction of the population. They must come together for the sake of the country,” he declared. Serigne Modou Kara Mbacké stressed that the moment demands national unity, not personal disputes, especially amid Senegal’s pressing economic and social pressures.

The religious figure did not shy away from a firm tone, urging both leaders to move past their conflict. “They must reunite and start anew for the country’s sake. They are like cousins in a playful rivalry,” he remarked, blending political and cultural reasoning to underscore his plea for calm.

Beyond power dynamics, Serigne Modou Kara Mbacké highlighted that the relationship between Diomaye Faye and Sonko stems from a shared history of struggle, predating their political rise. By stepping into a mediating role, the marabout is clearly seeking to influence the current political climate and remind the nation that unity must outweigh personal ambitions. “It wasn’t politics that united us, but rather hard work—until our kinship deepened through shared struggles,” he concluded, advocating for transcending divisions in favor of what truly matters.