A formal complaint, registered as case number 12562, was submitted this Wednesday to the prosecutor’s office at the Dakar High Court. The filing follows comments attributed to the PASTEF leader during the inauguration of his party’s headquarters last weekend, where he allegedly stated that “dirty money entered the holy city of Touba.”

Representatives Serigne Modou Maroun Niang and Serigne Mourtalla Bousso argue that Sonko’s remarks undermine the honor, reputation, and image of Touba, as well as the dignity of its residents. They emphasize that the religious city, founded by Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, is built on principles of faith, integrity, probity, diligence, and justice.

The complainants contend that the allegations cast unjustified suspicion over Touba’s moral and spiritual integrity. They have urged the Republic Prosecutor to launch an investigation to assess the validity, implications, and potential legal consequences of Sonko’s statements. Specifically, they request Sonko’s testimony to clarify his remarks and provide supporting evidence.

The group insists that all necessary measures be taken, and if justified, legal action be pursued for defamation, spreading false information, or other applicable offenses under current laws.