Interior Minister Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé addresses xenophobia and national cohesion at Tivaouane Gamou
During the official Gamou ceremony in Tivaouane, Minister of Interior and Public Security Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé delivered a strong speech emphasizing tolerance, national cohesion, and Senegalese Teranga. He condemned the rise of xenophobic discourse, stressing the importance of preserving the country's tradition of hospitality. Cissé also reaffirmed that state authority and border security are non-negotiable. He conveyed directives from the President, supported by advice from the Khalife General of the Tidianes, Serigne Babacar Sy Mansour, and urged the nation, especially the youth, to embrace the spiritual heritage of the country's great scholars. The Minister rigorously opposed intolerant rhetoric, stating that any discourse contrary to Teranga's fundamental values must be removed from public spaces. He highlighted that Senegal is a land of hospitality for those who respect its laws, referencing the first Muslim community as migrants and the Prophet's asylum in Medina, asserting that no exclusion of foreigners will be tolerated. Cissé also connected this responsibility of welcoming others to the reality of the Senegalese diaspora, noting that over two million compatriots live and work abroad. While promoting this open and inclusive policy inspired by Islamic values, he clarified that hospitality would not compromise territorial sovereignty. He commended the Defense and Security Forces for their commitment, urging them to enhance border surveillance and vigilance for inte
