Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has openly challenged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s stance on political funds, reigniting a long-standing debate that first surfaced in 2019. While Sonko advocates for stringent oversight and transparency, he argues that these funds must remain in place to serve their intended purpose.
a debate rooted in electoral promises
Sonko framed the disagreement as a matter of principle, rooted in campaign commitments and the need for fiscal accountability. During a recent interview at the Palais de la République on May 2, President Faye defended the existence of political funds, acknowledging their sensitivity but emphasizing their necessity for national security, intelligence operations, and international solidarity obligations. He stated, « Political funds cover expenses that cannot be publicly disclosed. »
In response, Sonko asserted, « Political funds were an electoral promise. I disagree with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye—he was mistaken. I trust he will correct course. » He traced the origins of the debate back to 2019, when his camp first advocated for greater transparency in fund management, arguing that no public funds should remain unchecked.
tough stance on oversight, not elimination
Sonko clarified that his position does not call for abolishing political funds outright but rather for rigorous regulation, drawing parallels with systems in France. He revealed that his office at the Prime Ministry holds 1.77 billion in political funds, stressing that the debate is not personal but driven by public demand to prevent misuse for political gains or personal enrichment.
He underscored the urgency of transparency, declaring, « These are matters of principle. No taxpayer-funded resource should evade scrutiny. »
legislative battle looms
Sonko also addressed the ongoing legislative process surrounding the issue. He revealed that he had advised President Faye against allowing the National Assembly to spearhead the legislation, arguing it should be an executive priority. He stated, « When I learned that Guy Marius Sagna would introduce the draft law, I told the President it would be a failure if the legislature took the lead. This was a promise from the executive branch, not the legislative. I shared my disagreement during a televised appearance. If delays persist, I will bring the proposal to the Council of Ministers for approval. »
