The extraordinary parliamentary session unfolds amidst a charged political climate. Pastef has notably reintroduced discussions on amending Article 37 of the Constitution. This proposed change would mandate the head of state to declare their assets at the conclusion of their term, in addition to the declaration already required upon assuming office.

This specific provision was previously part of a constitutional revision approved by deputies in late June. However, the Constitutional Council subsequently invalidated the text, representing a setback for Ousmane Sonko’s political faction. This new parliamentary initiative aims to revive the reform in a revised format.

The second legislative proposal championed by the majority addresses special credits, commonly known as “secret funds.” These allocations, designated for the Presidency of the Republic and the Prime Minister’s office, could face enhanced scrutiny, potentially through a dedicated, restricted commission of deputies.

The oversight of special credits at the heart of the disagreement

The management of these funds stands as a primary point of contention between Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This dispute notably contributed to the breakdown in relations between the two prominent figures last May.

According to Moussa Diaw, a professor of political science at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, these legislative endeavors reflect Pastef’s determination to compel the president towards greater transparency and accountability. The academic also draws a connection between this parliamentary offensive and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s recent establishment of his new political party, Kiiraay.

Both political texts will undergo an expedited review process. However, their ultimate adoption will hinge on the final substance of parliamentary debates and, if applicable, the subsequent review by the Constitutional Council.

The session also includes three government-sponsored bills. These proposals pertain to the Social Security Code, the Labor Code, and digital security.

The digital security legislation comes in the wake of a series of cyberattacks targeting Senegalese public institutions. Since October, at least three entities, including the Public Treasury, have reportedly been compromised. The proposed bill aims to establish a robust framework to bolster the protection of state digital infrastructure and data.