Senegal political funds debate: Sonko challenges president’s stance publicly

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has taken a bold public stance on the contentious issue of political funds, openly disagreeing with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye over their management. Speaking before lawmakers, Sonko made it clear that while he supports maintaining these funds, their use must undergo radical reform to eliminate opacity.

«I disagree with the President on this matter. I believe he has made a mistake, and I hope he will reconsider,» Sonko declared, emphasizing that the coalition’s original commitment was never to abolish these funds but to dismantle their misuse. His remarks targeted the practice of secretive «black cash» schemes where public money is entrusted to individuals without oversight.

The Prime Minister revealed that the Prime Ministry itself is allocated 1.77 billion FCFA in political funds, a figure he argues must no longer serve as «an electoral tool or a means for personal enrichment.» Instead, Sonko advocates for strict transparency measures, proposing a parliamentary oversight model inspired by France’s system.

While acknowledging certain budgets—such as those linked to national security—cannot be disclosed publicly, he suggested creating a restricted committee of deputies to verify that allocated funds are used as intended. To set an example, Sonko announced his intention to phase out cash transactions in favor of digital transfers and checks for managing government funds.

«This is a matter of principle,» he asserted. «The funds will remain, and I have no objection to increasing them—provided they are subject to rigorous control.» His statements were met with applause from lawmakers, signaling broad support for his reformist approach.