A significant stride towards greater transparency in Senegal’s political landscape has been made. The legislation, passed this Monday (August 17, 2026) with 133 out of 165 parliamentary votes, strengthens a requirement already enshrined in the nation’s Constitution since 2001.

Under the new provisions, the three highest state officials—the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and the President of the National Assembly—are mandated to declare their assets. This declaration must occur both at the commencement and conclusion of their terms, submitted to the Constitutional Council within a three-month timeframe.

This progressive step has garnered praise from Pastef, the political party led by National Assembly President Ousmane Sonko.

“Enacting such a law will undoubtedly enhance transparency in public administration, aligning with Pastef’s core principles under Ousmane Sonko,” stated Ansoumana Sambou, a member of Pastef’s National Communication Secretariat. “It allows Senegalese citizens to scrutinize their leaders’ holdings, thereby curbing illicit enrichment and the misuse of public funds.”

Adopted but subject to referendum

While the bill secured a substantial majority in parliament, Pastef, the driving force behind this initiative, faces further hurdles.

According to the Minister of Justice, “the President of the Republic has informed the President of the National Assembly that, in accordance with Article 4 of Article 103 of the Constitution, he has decided to submit this proposed revision to a referendum for public approval.”

Consequently, the legislation will be put to a public vote via a referendum, as confirmed by Justice Minister Moussa Sarr, who believes this reform should be part of a broader constitutional review.

“A costly referendum”

However, analyst Moussa Diaw expressed his bewilderment regarding the decision to hold a referendum.

“One wonders why the President of the Republic intends to subject this law to a referendum when he agrees with its fundamental principle,” Diaw questioned. “It is perplexing why the text would be put to a costly referendum, especially given Senegal’s current significant economic challenges.”

Ansoumana Sambou of Pastef believes that Senegalese citizens largely support this legislation, rendering the referendum decision incomprehensible.

“The issue has never been controversial,” Sambou asserted. “On the contrary, declaring one’s assets both upon entering and leaving office is widely regarded as a positive measure, regardless of the position held.”

The asset declaration reform appears to have transcended its institutional bounds, evolving into a fresh arena for political confrontation between Ousmane Sonko’s Pastef and the presidential movement led by Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

This Wednesday, August 19, attention will turn to the examination of the bill concerning special credits—the “opaque” funds managed by the presidency and prime minister’s office. Intense debates are anticipated.