Senegal touba declares ousmane sonko persona non grata by grandsons of serigne touba

The descendants of Serigne Touba have escalated their stance against opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, declaring him persona non grata in Touba. This decision follows a formal complaint filed for defamation after Sonko’s remarks about alleged illicit financial flows in the holy city.

In a press statement, the collective emphasized that Touba holds a sacred place in Senegal’s spiritual and cultural landscape. They argued that Sonko’s accusations undermine the moral authority of Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, the revered founder of the Mouride brotherhood.

Mokhtar Bousso, spokesperson for the group, condemned Sonko’s statements as disrespectful to both Touba and its teachings. Speaking on RFM radio, he declared, “Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s legacy must refrain from setting foot in Touba.”

touba’s role in Senegal’s development

The collective highlighted Touba’s contributions to Senegal’s economic, social, and moral progress. They insisted that Sonko’s remarks contradict the values of hospitality and reverence associated with the holy city.

Bousso further argued that Sonko’s allegations of “dirty money” circulating in Touba were particularly inflammatory, especially ahead of the Grand Magal, Touba’s most significant annual pilgrimage.

call for self-reflection

The spokesperson urged Sonko to reflect on his words, stating, “He must ask himself whether he deserves to return to Touba after such comments.”

He added that Sonko’s timing—just days before the Grand Magal—demonstrated a lack of respect for the event, which attracts thousands of Mouride followers. Bousso concluded that Sonko’s presence would undermine the spiritual significance of the gathering.