Senegal’s national assembly inaugurates new public policy oversight body

Ousmane Sonko lance une nouvelle méthode de contrôle contre Bassirou Diomaye Faye

This mechanism will enable deputies to verify the efficient and transparent use of public funds, enhancing government transparency in Senegal.

A significant reform has recently been cemented within Senegal’s legislative power. On Friday, August 26, 2026, the National Assembly officially inaugurated the Committee for the Evaluation of Public Policies (CEPP). This new body finally actualizes a commitment stemming from the 2016 constitutional revision, marking a pivotal moment for transparency and robust governance across the nation.

The CEPP is more than just another committee within the parliamentary corridors. Its strategic mandate is to meticulously analyze the tangible impact of state investments on the daily lives of Senegalese citizens. This institution will be responsible for structuring, conducting, and monitoring the evaluation of public policies. Through this mechanism, members of parliament will be empowered to verify that public funds are utilized both effectively and transparently, fostering greater accountability in Senegal politics.

Parliamentarians will no longer simply vote on legislation; they will now possess a dedicated technical arm to measure the efficacy of government actions. To ensure its legitimacy and broad representation, the CEPP comprises key figures from the Hémicycle. Its composition integrates all political persuasions within the National Assembly, including the President of the National Assembly, the presidents of parliamentary groups, the heads of the 14 permanent commissions, the representative for non-registered deputies, and nine additional deputies appointed proportionally to the political forces. This structure guarantees a democratic balance, integrating both the majority and the opposition into the crucial process of public action oversight.

Ousmane Sonko takes the helm of the bureau

During its inaugural meeting, the CEPP’s bureau was elected to steer the committee’s initial undertakings. Unsurprisingly, the presidency was entrusted to Ousmane Sonko, who currently serves as the President of the National Assembly. His leadership is anticipated to be instrumental in endowing the committee with the necessary authority when engaging with the Executive branch.

He will be supported by Mohamed Sall, elected as first vice-president, and Djimo Souaré, appointed as second vice-president. The administrative management and report drafting responsibilities will be handled by Béatrice Germaine Faye and Adama Diallo, serving as first secretary and second secretary, respectively.

This vote heralds a new era for Senegalese parliamentarism. The CEPP is expected to swiftly establish its work agenda. Citizens are now eagerly awaiting the committee’s initial evaluation reports, particularly on priority sectors such as health, education, and the economy, which are vital for African society news and development.

Ousmane Sonko