The Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko publicly contested the Head of State’s handling of political funds during a parliamentary session held on May 22, 2026. Speaking before lawmakers during the urgent questions segment, Sonko did not mince words, declaring that the president had made an « error » in this sensitive matter.
« I disagree with him on this issue, » he stated, while expressing hope that the presidency would reconsider its stance. The disagreement centers on the management of special political funds, a topic Sonko has long championed as part of his political movement’s core principles.
Long-standing demands for transparency
Sonko emphasized that the debate over political funds is not new. « Since 2014, we have been pushing for stricter oversight of these funds. This was a key promise in our 2019 manifesto, and yet, in 2024, the situation remains unchanged, » he noted. The Prime Minister insisted that the new administration had pledged to ensure no public funds would flow without proper accountability mechanisms.
Contrary to misconceptions, Sonko clarified that his objection was not about eliminating these special funds entirely but rather about subjecting them to a robust control system. « We have never suggested abolishing these funds. What we demand is transparency, » he asserted, drawing parallels with the supervision models used in France.
Addressing rumors and public trust
Sonko also refuted circulating claims that these funds might be transferred to the Prime Minister’s office. He pointed out that his department already manages a fund exceeding one billion West African CFA francs. For him, the crux of the issue lies in governance and restoring public confidence. « Many Senegalese believe these funds are used to buy political support, » he remarked, reaffirming that « not a single franc should escape scrutiny. »
The Prime Minister’s remarks underscore a broader commitment to fiscal responsibility and democratic accountability, themes that resonate deeply with voters in Senegal.
