Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has reiterated his commitment to tightening oversight of political funds, emphasizing the need for transparent and accountable use of public resources. His stance marks a notable shift from the position held by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on this delicate issue.
During a heated session of parliamentary questions to the government, Sonko fielded inquiries from lawmakers about the handling of political funds. He underscored that this initiative aligns with a long-standing pledge by his party, Pastef, to enhance fiscal responsibility.
The Prime Minister clarified that the goal is not to eliminate political funds entirely but to establish robust control mechanisms. These measures aim to prevent misuse and ensure every franc of public money is accounted for.
« No single cent from the Senegalese people should be spent without proper scrutiny, » Sonko declared, addressing the National Assembly with conviction.
In a surprising revelation, he disclosed that his own office at the Prime Ministry manages political funds totaling nearly 1.77 billion CFA francs. This admission underscores his transparency-first approach, as he emphasized that the debate is not directed at any individual but rather at systemic accountability.
However, Sonko acknowledged a philosophical divide with President Faye, who has previously defended the necessity of these funds. The President cited critical expenditures in national security, intelligence, and diplomatic engagements as reasons for maintaining the current system.
The Prime Minister pointed to international best practices, noting that many Western nations enforce stringent institutional oversight on political funds. He specifically referenced France’s model, where a dedicated commission monitors the use of special funds.
Sonko also disclosed that he had engaged in direct discussions with the Head of State following a parliamentary initiative led by lawmaker Guy Marius Sagna. He warned that subjecting the matter to a parliamentary vote could create an unnecessary political setback for the administration.