With the upcoming Grand Magal in Touba just around the corner, the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, paid a traditional courtesy visit to the general caliph of the Mouride brotherhood, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké. Arriving alongside a high-profile delegation of deputies and Pastef officials, he underscored the enduring bond between the state and the Mouride community amid a backdrop of ongoing public debates.
Honoring a spiritual and national icon
Standing before the revered patriarch, Sonko expressed profound admiration for the legacy of Serigne Touba, the founder of the Mouride order. « Our joy is immeasurable. Our respect for Serigne Touba knows no bounds, given his teachings, his journey, and his vision, » he declared. He went on to describe the spiritual leader as a model of leadership, one whose life embodies patriotism and self-reliance. « True freedom comes from independence, » he remarked, a statement that resonates deeply with the core values championed by the Pastef movement.
A lesson in self-reliance and financial wisdom
Sonko also shared a pivotal moment from the history of the Great Mosque of Touba, highlighting Serigne Touba’s unwavering commitment to self-financing. « A close associate recently recounted how, to fund the mosque’s construction, Serigne Touba called on his followers to contribute just 140 francs each, » he recalled. « At the time, a foreign power had offered to build the entire structure. He refused. » The President added, « The progress of Touba today is a testament to his principles. Had we followed his example, we would not be burdened by unsustainable debt. » His words subtly critiqued the nation’s fiscal management, urging a return to prudence and accountability.
Citing the wisdom of Serigne Cheikh Gaindé Fatma, Sonko emphasized a governance model rooted in collective effort and transparency: « Ask what people can truly give, and invest their contributions openly so that none are left in the dark. » This philosophy aligns closely with his vision for a more responsible and citizen-driven leadership.
A tradition of unity before the Grand Magal
His visit followed a similar gesture by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who also met with the caliph in the days leading up to the religious festival. Serigne Mountakha conveyed his approval, urging Sonko to remain steadfast in his commitment to national peace and cohesion. The exchange underscored the continued importance of dialogue between political leadership and spiritual institutions in Senegal.
