The collective of grandsons of Serigne Touba has escalated its stance against Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party. Following a defamation complaint filed in response to his remarks about alleged “dirty money” circulating in Touba, the group now insists Sonko should be barred from entering the holy city—including during the upcoming Grand Magal pilgrimage.

The collective’s spokesperson, Mokhtar Bousso, made these demands clear in a recent radio interview, arguing that Sonko’s statements disrespect both Touba and its founder, Serigne Touba Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba.

Mokhtar Bousso emphasized that Touba has been a cornerstone of Senegal’s development—economically, socially, and spiritually—for generations. He stated: “Anyone who questions Serigne Touba’s authority has no place in Touba. If Ousmane Sonko truly respected the teachings and legacy of Serigne Touba, he would never have made such comments about the city.”

The spokesperson went further, insisting that Sonko’s allegations of “dirty money” in Touba are incompatible with the values of the Grand Magal, a major religious event drawing thousands of devotees.

Bousso urged Sonko to reflect on his actions: “Ousmane Sonko must ask himself whether he deserves to set foot in Touba after his statements. If he truly believes dirty money has flowed into Touba, he should stay away.”

The timing of Sonko’s remarks, just days before the Grand Magal, was also criticized. Bousso argued that attacking Touba during this sacred period reflects a lack of respect for the pilgrimage and its significance to the Mouride community.