Senegal politics: Thiam condemns Sonko’s divisive remarks on Touba

The leader of Senegal’s ACT party, Ibrahima Thiam, has strongly criticized recent comments by Ousmane Sonko, describing them as a threat to national cohesion.

In a published opinion piece titled “Amalgamation as a strategy: Sonko’s latest misstep”, Thiam argues that Sonko’s statements were widely interpreted as targeting Touba and, by extension, the Mouride community. He contends that rather than fostering meaningful debate, these remarks reflect a deliberate strategy of provocation, sensationalism, and division.

Thiam emphasizes that in a democracy, responsibility must be individual, not collective. He warns that implying an entire city and religious community could be linked to illegal activities represents a serious political misstep. Such rhetoric, he argues, does not seek truth but instead fuels harmful stereotypes.

The ACT leader also accuses Sonko of employing populist language, where soundbites replace substance and media spectacle overshadows responsible discourse. According to Thiam, this approach is designed to energize PASTEF’s base by fostering a climate of confrontation rather than constructive dialogue.

In his article, Thiam highlights Touba’s significance beyond its status as a city—it is a spiritual, economic, and historical cornerstone of Senegal. He stresses that the Mouride community plays a vital role in national unity and that public statements suggesting otherwise must be handled with great caution to avoid undermining social harmony.

Concluding his remarks, Thiam calls for more measured political discourse, grounded in facts and mutual respect. He urges leaders to prioritize national unity over divisive rhetoric, ensuring that democratic debate remains focused on solutions rather than polarization.