Xala

As French colonial rule ends in Senegal, a new era dawns for the local people. The Senegalese Chamber of Commerce welcomes its first indigenous president, marking a significant political shift.

The celebration for the new Chamber of Commerce president is lively, with singers and dancers performing outside the building. This event symbolizes hope and changes for many Senegalese members.

The newly appointed members take a bold step by stripping French decor from the offices and ejecting the existing French board members. This act demonstrates their desire for independence and self-governance.

The expelled French board members return with suitcases full of money, seeking to negotiate their stay. The Senegalese members, enticed by the financial offers, agree to allow the French to remain.

El Hadji Abdoukader Beye, leveraging his new position, begins to enhance his business operations. He orders soldiers to clear beggars from his street, showcasing his newfound power and ambition.

El Hadji's success prompts him to take on a third wife, marrying into a prominent family despite the objections of his first two wives. This act further cements his status within society.

On his wedding night, El Hadji discovers he is unable to consummate his marriage due to impotence. Confusion ensues as he suspects that his first two wives might have cursed him.

In desperation, El Hadji consults marabouts for advice on curing his impotence, engaging in rituals and charms despite his previous disdain for such beliefs. This shift marks a critical point in his character development.

Eventually, a marabout recommended by his driver cures El Hadji of his impotence. However, he is warned that the condition could easily return and that he must be cautious.

As El Hadji's personal life begins to stabilize, his professional life takes a downturn. Shipments fail to arrive, and financial institutions deny his loan requests, marking the beginning of his downfall.

It is revealed that El Hadji sold off the Senegalese national grain stores, damaging the reputation of the Chamber of Commerce. Trust in the board is severely compromised as allegations of corruption arise.

In a critical meeting, El Hadji is voted out of the board due to his actions. He acknowledges his corruption but defends himself by claiming that all board members share similar unethical practices.

Following his ousting, state officers seize El Hadji's business and car due to his fraudulent dealings. This marks a significant blow to his identity and livelihood.

With his life unraveling, El Hadji returns to his first wife's home as his subsequent marriages fall apart. His reputation is tarnished, and he finds himself seeking refuge.

A blind beggar confronts El Hadji, claiming he cursed him due to theft. Offering to remove the curse if El Hadji submits to humiliation, the beggar's challenge forces El Hadji to confront the consequences of his actions.