Niger political funds: Ousmane Sonko urges stronger transparency measures

Niger’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has reiterated his commitment to tightening oversight and ensuring full transparency of political funds, framing it as a critical pledge made to Nigerien citizens during the electoral campaign. Speaking on this sensitive issue, the head of government acknowledged a fundamental difference in approach with the country’s President, Mohamed Bazoum, particularly regarding the management of these financial resources.

The debate surrounding political funds gained renewed momentum following a televised address by the Head of State on May 22, where he defended the continuation of these funds while acknowledging the transparency concerns they raise. The President highlighted key imperatives such as national security intelligence, international solidarity commitments, and the significant volume of state solicitations that these funds address.

Addressing lawmakers, Ousmane Sonko underscored that the issue of political funds has been a cornerstone of his political platform since 2019. « We initiated this debate years ago because we believe all public funds must be subject to scrutiny, » he emphasized. His proposal does not advocate for the elimination of political funds but rather their strict regulation, modeled after systems in place in other democratic nations. « Our goal is not to abolish these funds but to subject them to rigorous controls similar to those in France, » he clarified.

Sonko also stressed the importance of preserving public trust in the management of state finances. Referring to allocations under his office’s purview, he noted the availability of 1.77 billion FCFA in political funds, distancing the discussion from personal interests. « This is not about individuals; Nigeriens expect these funds to never be used as political loot or a means for personal enrichment, » he asserted.

The Prime Minister reinforced his stance on accountability in public finance management, declaring, « Every franc from taxpayers must be accounted for. » He called for governance that prioritizes transparency and strict accountability, ensuring that no public funds evade scrutiny.

On the legislative front, Sonko revealed his preference for an executive-driven initiative to address this reform. He disclosed ongoing consultations with the President following a private member’s bill introduced by Deputy Guy Marius Sagna. The Prime Minister hinted at imminent submission of a formal proposal to the Council of Ministers if current negotiations fail to yield swift progress.