Ousmane Sonko challenges President Bassirou Diomaye Faye over political funds management

Dakar — Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has publicly contested President Bassirou Diomaye Faye‘s stance on political funds, reigniting a long-standing debate that has divided the government since 2019. While Sonko advocates for stringent transparency measures, the President maintains their necessity, citing security and international obligations.

Clashing views on political funds

During a May 2nd interview at the Presidential Palace, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye defended the existence of political funds, acknowledging their sensitivity regarding transparency. He argued that these funds, which cannot be publicly itemized, are essential for intelligence, security operations, international solidarity commitments, and domestic state obligations.

In response, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko firmly disagreed, stating: “Political funds were a campaign promise. I disagree with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye—he made a mistake. I trust he will correct this.” Sonko emphasized that the debate over these funds has been ongoing since 2019, driven by his camp’s belief that all public funds must be subject to strict oversight.

Sonko pushes for strict controls, not abolition

While rejecting calls for the outright elimination of political funds, Sonko insisted on rigorous regulatory frameworks, citing international standards such as those in France. He revealed that his office manages 1.77 billion FCFA in political funds, stressing that the focus should be on preventing misuse rather than elimination. “This isn’t personal. Senegalese citizens reject these funds being treated as political spoils or personal enrichment,” he asserted.

Sonko reiterated his commitment to transparency, declaring: “No public funds should escape scrutiny. These are matters of principle.” He also addressed the ongoing legislative process, warning against parliamentary initiatives on the issue. “When I learned that Guy Marius Sagna was preparing to introduce a bill, I told the President it would be a failure for the legislature to propose a law that the executive had already pledged to address,” he explained. “I will present the proposal to the Council of Ministers if the President’s stance remains unchanged.”

Government tensions over fiscal transparency

The disagreement highlights broader tensions within the government regarding fiscal transparency and public trust. While the President justifies political funds as necessary for state operations, Sonko champions stricter controls to align with citizen expectations. The debate underscores the challenges of balancing operational secrecy with demands for accountability in governance.