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Rabat — The Mashyakha of the Tijaniyya in Fez, the spiritual leadership of the Tijaniyya in the city, has urged Moroccans and Senegalese to continue showing wisdom and unity amid tensions following the chaotic AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal.
In a statement earlier this week, the Tijaniyya leadership stressed the fraternity and brotherhood that unite both countries, calling on all supporters and people to exercise vigilance and wisdom.
According to the Sufi group, fans and people from the two countries should not be drawn into the schemes of those who sow discord, extremism, and violence.
These practices seek to exploit sporting competitions to divide and poison relations between the two nations, the statement said.
The leadership also recalled the spiritual masters who transformed Tijaniyya zawiyas into bridges of communication and fruitful cooperation, highlighting the foundations of fraternity between Morocco and Senegal.
The Tijaniyya Sufi order continues to play a vital role in enriching religious and spiritual dialogue between Morocco and other African nations, particularly Senegal. Their intervention shows how conflict in matches does not only affect sporting institutions or the fans, but can go as far as sparking concern amongst influential spiritual leaders.
The group particularly referenced King Mohammed VI’s recent remarks in response to the backlash and controversy that overshadowed the Atlas Lions’ attempt to clinch their second AFCON trophy in 50 years. In a statement from the Royal Cabinet, the monarch acknowledged that the closing minutes of the tournament were marked by unfortunate and regrettable incidents, describing them as deplorable.
The monarch emphasized that Morocco delivered a world-class tournament, reiterating that hostile schemes during the event will never achieve their aims.
“Nothing will alter the closeness that has been fostered over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built hand in hand with different countries of the continent, bolstered by ambitious partnerships,” the statement said.
The Royal Cabinet additionally reiterated Morocco’s commitment to strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity, expressing pride in being a leading African country.
“In accordance with the enlightened vision of the Sovereign, Morocco will further its resolute and steadfast commitment in favor of a united and prosperous Africa, notably through the mutual exchange of experiences, expertise, and knowledge,” the statement concluded.
The final on January 18 witnessed chaotic scenes, marked by the Senegalese team temporarily and unlawfully withdrawing from the game after they received a VAR-verified penalty. Fans from Senegal also attempted to storm the pitch, violently attacking security guards.
