The ongoing debate surrounding the reform of special credits has reached a new peak. Dr. El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf, who serves as the Minister of Petroleum and Deputy General Supervisor for the KIIRAAY / Les Patriotes Républicains coalition, has forcefully criticized the National Assembly’s proposed bill concerning these funds. He directly accused the parliamentary majority and its leader, Ousmane Sonko, of employing « double standards » when addressing religious institutions.

According to Dr. Abdourahmane Diouf, Ousmane Sonko’s recent engagements with religious leaders are inconsistent with the actual content of the bill put before Parliament. He reiterated his firm belief that « What he is proposing at the National Assembly is completely different from what he told our religious guides, » emphasizing a significant « moral problem. » The Minister pointed to Article 2 of the parliamentary proposal, which strictly limits special credits « exclusively » to defense, security, and intelligence. Furthermore, he cited Article 5, which explicitly excludes expenditures of a social nature. Dr. Diouf characterized this wording as « anti-social and anti-religious credits, » arguing that it effectively shuts the door on any form of solidarity aimed at vulnerable populations.

In contrast, Dr. Diouf commended the Executive’s amendments to the bill, which seek to reintroduce provisions for « the preservation of social order » and uphold « humanitarian values of mutual aid and solidarity. » His conclusion was unequivocal: « Where the Assembly excludes, the Executive includes. » Finally, Dr. Abdourahmane Diouf challenged Ousmane Sonko, reminding him that he himself utilized political funds without reservation during his tenure as Prime Minister. He urged Sonko to fully acknowledge the implications of his proposed legislation, stating: « Take responsibility for your discrimination against our religious communities in the allocation of political funds! The Republic! Nothing but the Republic! »