The spokesperson for the Khalife General of the Mourides, Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké, has made a public appeal for enhanced security, discipline, and sanitation measures in Touba, Senegal. On September 24, he addressed a gathering that included the mayor of Touba, the sub-prefect Djidiack Kital, and representatives from the Gendarmerie and Police.

Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké emphasized the importance of upholding the ndigël, or consigne, set by the Khalife General, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké, who represents Serigne Touba. He stressed that it is the duty of the religious guide to recommend good behavior and prohibit bad behavior. The spokesperson highlighted the need for the guide to lead and for disciples to follow.

Touba was founded for the purpose of worshiping God, learning, and teaching. Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké urged that the city's status as a hub for daaras, or Islamic schools, be preserved despite rapid demographic and urban growth. He also addressed concerns regarding the circulation of horses and donkeys, calling for an end to practices such as overloading and drugging these animals.

The spokesperson criticized the use of public roads for disposing of wastewater from septic tanks and urged the hygiene services to take immediate action against this practice. He emphasized that public spaces belong to everyone and called for measures to be implemented against those who violate these rules.

Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké also encouraged the population to preserve the values of Touba and avoid gatherings that he described as focused on "futilities and politics." He stated that Touba is the heart of Senegal and that challenges faced by the city could have repercussions for the entire country.

The spokesperson for the Khalife General of the Mourides requested that the prefect work in close collaboration with the mayor and representatives of Serigne Touba to address the city's concerns. He also called for increased collaboration between the population, Police, and Gendarmerie to combat aggression, theft, and insecurity.

Finally, Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké provided clarification on the allocation of diplomatic passports to certain religious and customary personalities in Senegal.

Key points

  • The spokesperson for the Khalife General of the Mourides, Serigne Bassirou Abdou Khadre Mbacké, has called for enhanced security, discipline, and sanitation measures in Touba, Senegal.
  • The appeal was made to preserve Touba's status as a holy city and hub for Islamic learning and worship.
  • The spokesperson emphasized the need for collaboration between authorities, the population, and security services to address the city's challenges.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.