Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, traveled to Touba last Friday to offer his condolences to the family of Serigne Cheikh Saliou Mbacké, who had passed away the previous day. Witnesses described the visit as emotionally charged, with Sonko visibly affected during his time in the holy city.

Upon addressing the mourners, the Pastef leader struggled to contain his emotions. After uttering only a few words, he was overcome by grief and broke down in tears. Those present interpreted his reaction as a testament to the close relationship between Sonko and the late guide. “I’ve never seen him cry before,” shared one attendee. “Despite everything he endured between 2021 and 2024, he never faltered. Today, his tears reveal the magnitude of his loss.”

Earlier that week, upon learning of Serigne Cheikh Saliou Mbacké’s passing, Sonko had already expressed his sorrow in a public statement. He described the religious figure as a pillar of strength in his life, saying, “A father, a friend, a confidant, and a guide has left us. He stood by me in my darkest hours, offering compassion, wisdom, prayers, and the support of thousands of disciples across the Daara communities.”