During a gathering in Khombole to launch membership card sales for his party, Pastef, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko publicly corrected former minister Maimouna Dièye for an overly reverent religious reference made in his presence.
Addressing party activists, Maimouna Dièye stated, “I am honored to stand before you today, especially under the watchful presence of Seydina Ousmane Sonko Salalahou Aleyhi Wa Salam.” The phrase, which invokes blessings typically reserved for prophets, drew immediate attention.
Taking the floor, Ousmane Sonko clarified that such religious associations should not be linked to his person. “The admiration some people hold for me can sometimes lead to exaggerated expressions,” he noted. “My sister Maimouna Dièye, in her remarks, paired my name with that phrase. Ma téyé sama Guémign,” he added, urging restraint.
The Pastef leader emphasized that this form of reverence is exclusively meant for the Prophet Mohammed. “Let us reserve this honor for him,” Sonko stated, as the crowd erupted in applause. “I have never reached—and will never reach—that status,” he affirmed.
This clarification comes amid Sonko’s ongoing nationwide tour to promote Pastef’s membership drive. Following Khombole, the campaign is set to continue in Bargny, Bambey, and Sébikhotane, mobilizing supporters across the country.