Heated parliamentary debate: Abdou Mbow warns of a nation in peril amidst clashes with Ousmane Sonko

A palpable tension filled the National Assembly chamber during Deputy Abdou Mbow’s address. From the podium, the parliamentarian painted a grim picture of the nation’s state, unequivocally declaring, “There is a crisis gripping this country.”

During his discourse, Abdou Mbow specifically referenced the Customs administration and the Directorate of Financial Affairs (DAF), subsequently condemning practices he believes jeopardize public finances.

The deputy asserted that “when former Prime Ministers allow themselves to divert funds allocated for Casamance towards political ends, this country faces grave danger.” These allegations, which he did not further substantiate, promptly prompted an intervention from Ousmane Sonko, the President of the National Assembly.

On multiple occasions, the President of the National Assembly urged him to “adhere to the subject,” even as Abdou Mbow persisted in developing his arguments.

The deputy then cited a prior instance involving Guy Marius Sagna, contending that Sagna had also made remarks exceeding the scope of the topic under discussion during a previous session. “Guy Marius Sagna is a fellow deputy. He spoke, he criticized the President,” Mbow maintained.

Ousmane Sonko once more interjected, instructing Abdou Mbow to remain on topic. Nevertheless, the parliamentarian pressed on, asserting that Guy Marius Sagna had similarly “strayed from the subject” without being prevented from continuing his speech.

“Therefore, I reiterate that, in this country, it is imperative we understand that our nation is in peril,” Abdou Mbow emphatically stated.

Confronted with the deputy’s unwavering stance, the atmosphere grew even more charged. Ousmane Sonko then issued a stern warning: “Stay on topic, or you will leave the podium.” The President of the National Assembly further added, “I would prefer you not to depart in the same manner as last time,” alluding to a previous incident involving the parliamentarian within the chamber.

Abdou Mbow stood firm, refusing to back down and reiterating his points concerning the management of public funds. “One cannot embezzle our public funds and then seek refuge in the National Assembly. The people will speak out,” he concluded.