A Pastef party rally in Khombole saw a supporter, Maïmouna Dièye, make controversial remarks about Ousmane Sonko. Dièye invoked a blessing typically reserved for the Prophet Muhammad while mentioning Sonko, triggering visible discomfort from the politician himself. This invocation, “Salat,” is exclusively used by Muslims for the Prophet and, in some traditions, other prophets, and applying it to a political figure is considered inappropriate. The incident highlights concerns about the excessive idolization of political leaders by their followers, a practice often cautioned against by religious leaders. Sonko swiftly responded, acknowledging his supporters' affection but firmly stating the invocation should be solely for the Prophet. He disavowed any aspiration to spiritual status, seeking to preempt political exploitation of the incident by opponents and curb further controversy.