A heated debate unfolded within Senegal’s National Assembly during Deputy Abdou Mbow’s recent address. From the parliamentary rostrum, Mbow painted a grim picture of the nation’s state, declaring unequivocally, “there is a crisis in this country.”
During his remarks, Abdou Mbow specifically referenced the Customs (Douane) and the Directorate of Financial Administration (DAF), subsequently condemning practices he believes jeopardize public finances.
The Deputy asserted that “when former Prime Ministers allow themselves to utilize funds allocated for Casamance for political objectives, this nation faces peril.” These accusations, which he did not further elaborate upon, immediately prompted an intervention from the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko.
On multiple occasions, the National Assembly President urged him to “adhere to the topic,” even as Abdou Mbow sought to continue developing his argument.
The Deputy then cited a precedent involving Guy Marius Sagna, arguing that Sagna had previously made statements during an earlier session that extended beyond the scope of the matter under discussion. “Guy Marius Sagna is a Deputy. He spoke, he attacked the President,” Mbow contended.
Ousmane Sonko once more interrupted Abdou Mbow, instructing him to remain focused on the subject. Nevertheless, the parliamentarian pressed on, maintaining that Guy Marius Sagna had himself “deviated from the topic” without being prevented from continuing his address.
“Therefore, I reiterate clearly that, in this country, we must acknowledge that our nation is in danger,” Abdou Mbow emphatically declared.
Confronted with the Deputy’s continued defiance, the intensity of the exchange escalated. Ousmane Sonko then issued a stern warning: “Stay on topic or you will leave the podium.” The President of the National Assembly further added, “I do not wish for you to depart in the same manner as last time,” alluding to a previous incident involving the parliamentarian within the chamber.
Abdou Mbow steadfastly refused to back down, reiterating his concerns regarding the management of public funds. “One cannot embezzle our public funds and then seek refuge in the National Assembly. People will speak out,” he concluded.
