There is often a great deal of jealousy between the co-wives, and divorce is fairly common. Marriage with a first cousin is seen by many Wolof as the way to increase the chances of having a harmonious marriage. The heads of households make the major decisions for the family, but usually does so in consultation with peers and family members. The marabout is believed to have the power to discern if the conditions in the unseen, spiritual world are favorable for the inquirer. If they are not favorable, the proper ritual or act will be prescribed in order to manipulate the unseen world to be favorably disposed toward the inquirer.
Most local imams have authority in their community, especially in the area of Islamic concerns.
These men are revered and respected to the point that blind obedience is given even if the commands given contradict formal Islam. These brotherhood leaders are the most powerful men in Senegal. There is one radio for every eight people and one T.V. for every 118 people in Senegal. A separatist revolt in the South among the Jola people continues to plague Senegal. Another outbreak in September of 1997 left at least 25 soldiers dead.