Touba, 30 July 2026 — With the Grand Magal of Touba just days away, scheduled for this Sunday, 2 August 2026, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, paid a courtesy visit to the holy city of Touba. He was received by Serigne Mountakha Mbacké, the general Khalife of the Mourides, in an atmosphere of deep respect and spirituality.
The meeting provided Sonko with an opportunity to convey his warm greetings to the religious leader while reaffirming his profound admiration. He took the moment to highlight the spiritual and historical significance of the Grand Magal of Touba, a cornerstone event in the Mouride community. The celebration commemorates the exile of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, the founder of the Mouride brotherhood, and embodies timeless values such as faith, perseverance, diligence, and peace.
Sonko emphasised the enduring legacy of this spiritual heritage, which continues to inspire millions of devotees across Senegal and beyond. He also underscored Touba’s pivotal role as both a religious and social hub, fostering national stability and unity.
In his response, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké renewed his call for peace, national unity, and the preservation of social cohesion. Amidst a challenging landscape, he urged Senegalese citizens to remain united around the values of solidarity and brotherhood.
The Khalife went on to offer prayers for both Ousmane Sonko and the entire Senegalese people, wishing the nation enduring peace, prosperity, and stability.
This visit reflects the long-standing republican tradition of dialogue and mutual respect between political and religious authorities, especially during major spiritual gatherings like the Grand Magal of Touba.