Reform in Context I: Senegal (and Mali)

Abstract

This chapter introduces Senegal as a first regional context for the emergence of both Sufi- and Salafi-oriented movements of reform. It shows that neither movement of reform was monolithic but characterized by multiple splits, often linked with family disputes and generational change. The chapter presents Cheikh Touré as the major representative of Salafi-minded reform in Senegal and discusses the different ways in which Sufi movements responded to the challenge of Salafi-oriented reform. The chapter shows that both Sufi- and Salafi-oriented movements of reform tried to take part actively in Senegalese politics and to influence politics. It also explains why Salafi-oriented reform has not managed to become a popular mass movement in Senegal and why Sufi movements managed to consolidate their role as the major political players in Senegal. The chapter finally compares the development of Salafi-oriented reform in Mali with developments in Senegal and shows that the success of Salafi-minded reform in Mali was linked with the different historical and social context. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the civil war in Mali in 2011 and 2012 and the emergence of jihad-minded groups in northern Mali.