The descendants of Serigne Touba have escalated their stance against Ousmane Sonko, leader of PASTEF, by declaring him persona non grata in Touba. This bold move follows a formal defamation complaint filed in response to Sonko’s remarks alleging the circulation of questionable funds in the holy city. The collective’s decision extends to all visits, including the upcoming Grand Magal pilgrimage.
Speaking to RFM, the collective’s spokesperson, Mokhtar Bousso, condemned Sonko’s statements as a blatant disrespect to Touba and its revered founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. “Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s authority must refrain from setting foot in Touba,” he declared. Bousso emphasized that Touba’s contributions to Senegal’s moral, social, and economic fabric are unmatched, making Sonko’s allegations deeply offensive.
He further argued that Sonko’s comments about “dirty money” circulating in Touba were not only unfounded but also incompatible with the sanctity of the Grand Magal. “Touba is the heart of Mouride Islam, and to raise such claims during a time of spiritual preparation is an affront to all believers,” Bousso stated. He called on Sonko to reflect on his words and reconsider any future visits, stressing that his presence during the Grand Magal would be particularly inappropriate.
The collective’s decision underscores growing tensions between Sonko’s political camp and Touba’s religious leadership. By branding him persona non grata, they are sending a clear message: Touba’s boundaries are not to be crossed without consequences.