Stricter controls on political funds: a priority for Senegalese governance
During a heated session at the National Assembly, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing oversight of political funds in Senegal. His stance introduces a fresh perspective in the ongoing debate about transparency in public expenditure, setting him apart from President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s approach on this critical issue.
The Prime Minister’s intervention came in response to direct questioning from lawmakers, during which he underscored that stronger regulation of political funds has long been a core pledge of the Pastef party. Sonko emphasized that the objective is not to eliminate these funds but to introduce robust control mechanisms to ensure every franc is accounted for transparently.
« No single franc from the Senegalese people should be spent without rigorous oversight, » Sonko declared firmly in front of parliamentarians. His words reflect a broader push for accountability in how public resources are managed, particularly in sensitive areas such as political financing.
The Prime Minister also disclosed that he himself oversees political funds at the Prime Minister’s office, amounting to nearly 1.77 billion CFA francs. By making this information public, he aimed to demonstrate that the push for transparency is not targeted at any individual but is rooted in principle. However, he acknowledged a divergence of views with the Head of State, who has previously defended the retention of these funds by citing essential expenditures related to national security, intelligence, and diplomatic commitments.
Drawing comparisons with international practices, Sonko highlighted that several Western nations have established institutional frameworks to monitor such resources. He pointed to France as an example, where special funds are reportedly subject to scrutiny by dedicated oversight committees.
The Prime Minister also revealed that he had engaged in discussions with the President following a parliamentary initiative led by Deputy Guy Marius Sagna on this matter. Sonko cautioned that referring the issue to Parliament could potentially undermine the government’s political standing, indicating the sensitivity of the topic within the corridors of power.
