A significant step towards enhanced transparency in Senegal’s political sphere has been taken. On Monday, August 17, 2026, 133 out of 165 deputies voted in favor of a new bill designed to strengthen the wealth declaration requirements, which have been enshrined in the nation’s Constitution since 2001.  

Under this reinforced legislation, the country’s three highest-ranking officials – the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and the President of the National Assembly – will now be mandated to declare their personal assets. This declaration must be submitted to the Constitutional Council not only at the commencement of their term but also at its conclusion, with a strict three-month deadline for compliance.  

The Pastef party, led by National Assembly President Ousmane Sonko, has publicly applauded this legislative advancement.

“Enacting such a law will undoubtedly bolster transparency in public administration, aligning perfectly with Pastef’s core principles under Ousmane Sonko. It allows the Senegalese people to scrutinize their leaders’ holdings, thereby curbing illicit enrichment and the wasteful expenditure of public funds,” stated Ansoumana Sambou, a prominent member of Pastef’s National Communication Secretariat. 

Approved but subject to referendum

While the bill garnered substantial support in the National Assembly, securing a clear majority, the Pastef party, which championed this initiative, faces an unexpected hurdle. 

According to the Justice Minister, “the President of the Republic has informed the President of the National Assembly of his decision to submit this proposed revision to a referendum for public approval, in accordance with Article 4 of Article 103 of the Constitution.” 

Justice Minister Moussa Sarr further explained that the measure will therefore be put to a popular vote, suggesting this reform should be integrated into a broader constitutional review process.  

“A costly referendum”

However, political analyst Moussa Diaw expressed bewilderment regarding the decision to hold a referendum. 

“One questions why the President of the Republic wishes to submit this law to a referendum, especially when he agrees with its fundamental principle. It’s difficult to comprehend the rationale behind a costly referendum, particularly when Senegal is already grappling with significant economic challenges.”

Ansoumana Sambou of Pastef echoed this sentiment, finding the referendum baffling given the widespread public support for the measure among Senegalese citizens.

“This issue has never been a source of contention. On the contrary, the idea of declaring one’s assets upon entering and leaving office, regardless of the position, is largely viewed favorably.”

The wealth declaration reform is clearly transcending its initial institutional scope, now emerging as a fresh arena for political contention between Ousmane Sonko’s Pastef and the presidential movement led by Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

Adding to the political agenda, Wednesday, August 19, will see the examination of the special credits bill, which pertains to the