Senegal minister condemns remarks linking touba to illicit funds

The recent remarks made by Ousmane Sonko during his visit to Touba have sparked a wave of reactions across Senegal’s political landscape. Minister of Terrestrial and Air Transport, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye, has strongly rebutted the assertions linking the holy city to the laundering of illicit funds.

In a public statement, Minister Ndiaye condemned the allegations as a direct affront to the dignity of Touba and its residents. « Labeling Touba as a hub for dirty money is not just disrespectful—it’s an outright violation of the sacred values upheld by this spiritual city and its people, » he declared.

Misunderstanding the spiritual legacy of Touba

Minister Ndiaye emphasized that such comments reflect a glaring ignorance of Touba’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage. « To equate the residents of Touba with money launderers is to completely disregard the principles of dignity, hard work, and integrity that define the Mouride brotherhood, » he stated. He highlighted the unwavering commitment of Touba’s inhabitants to the teachings of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, stressing that their reputation for moral uprightness is unassailable.

The minister also pointed to the absence of key religious and local leaders during Sonko’s visit as a clear indication of collective disapproval. « The silence of these leaders speaks volumes, » he noted, underscoring the community’s rejection of the insinuations made.

Support for national leadership and unity

Beyond addressing the controversy, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye took the opportunity to praise President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s commitment to addressing the needs of Touba’s residents. « The President’s deep understanding of Touba’s significance is evident in the concrete actions he has taken to uplift its people, » he remarked. He also extended his backing to Prime Minister Mouhamadou Al Amine Lo, praising his dedication to resolving long-standing administrative challenges inherited from previous governments.

Ndiaye urged political actors to prioritize national cohesion over divisive rhetoric, asserting that Senegal’s progress depends on unity. « This nation needs solidarity more than ever to overcome its economic and social hurdles, » he concluded. Reaffirming his confidence in President Faye, he described the head of state as « a man of unshakable integrity, wholly devoted to the nation’s advancement », adding that the President remains steadfast in his mission to fulfill the aspirations of the Senegalese people.