The Alliance for the Republic (APR) has escalated its advocacy in Touba following the detention of its national coordinator, Pape Malick Ndour, labeling the case a politically motivated scheme orchestrated by authorities. In a high-profile meeting with Serigne Mountakha Mbacké, APR representatives pressed their claims for justice, reigniting national discussions on judicial integrity and political accountability in Senegal.
On May 18, 2026, a delegation from the Convergence of Republican Cadres (CCR) traveled to Touba to present their case to Serigne Mountakha Mbacké, the spiritual leader of the Mouride Brotherhood. The visit marked the beginning of a broader outreach to Senegal’s religious leadership, as APR officials frame the arrest of their colleague as part of a systematic campaign against their party rather than a legitimate judicial proceeding.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Bocar Diongue emphasized the perceived injustice, stating, “We are in Touba today to initiate a nationwide tour with religious families to share the circumstances surrounding the wrongful imprisonment of our colleague, former minister Pape Malick Ndour.” He stressed that the legal action against Ndour stems from a 2018 financial inspection report—years before Ndour assumed leadership of the Community Agricultural Land Program (Prodac)—and accused the current administration of weaponizing the judiciary against political opponents.
Political persecution disguised as justice
The APR leadership argues that the prosecution of Pape Malick Ndour and other party members exposes a pattern of judicial abuse. They point to the timing of the Prodac report, which predates Ndour’s appointment, as proof that his involvement is fabricated. “This is not about corruption—it’s about silencing dissent,” Diongue asserted, adding that several APR figures, including Farba Ngom, Mansour Faye, and Moustapha Diop, have faced similar incarcerations without credible evidence.
According to CCR members, these cases reflect a deliberate strategy to dismantle the APR through legal intimidation. “Our colleagues are jailed not for crimes, but for their political affiliation,” they contend, framing the arrests as a violation of democratic principles.
Direct accusations against Prime Minister Sonko
The delegation did not mince words in accusing Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of orchestrating the legal assault on APR members. Diongue declared, “Ousmane Sonko is the mastermind behind these detentions. We declare this publicly and will continue the fight regardless of the cost.” The statement underscores the growing tensions between the APR and the current government, with religious mediation emerging as a key battleground for political legitimacy.
Following the meeting in Touba, the CCR delegation proceeded to Thiènaaba, where they were received by Serigne Assane Seck, the spiritual leader of the area. The visit concluded with prayers for Ndour’s release and a renewed call for solidarity within Senegal’s religious communities.