Prime Minister Sonko disputes president’s stance on political funds

Tensions have surfaced within Senegal’s government as Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko publicly challenged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s handling of political funds—a debate that has simmered since 2019. While Sonko advocates for strict transparency, he maintains that these funds are necessary, highlighting a fundamental disagreement over their management.

Diverging views on political funds management

During a May 2 interview at the Presidential Palace, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye addressed the issue of political funds, defending their existence despite admitting their sensitivity regarding transparency. He explained that these funds, which cannot be fully disclosed to the public, serve critical purposes such as intelligence operations, national security, international solidarity obligations, and domestic state engagements.

Prime Minister Sonko, however, strongly disagreed with the president’s position, stating: “Political funds are part of our electoral commitments. I don’t agree with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye—he’s mistaken. I trust he will correct his stance.” Sonko emphasized that the debate over these funds was initiated by his camp as early as 2019, driven by a shared belief that all public funds must undergo rigorous scrutiny.

Call for strict oversight, not abolition

Sonko clarified that his stance does not advocate for eliminating political funds but rather imposing stringent controls on their use. He drew parallels with countries like France, where similar mechanisms ensure accountability. “We are not calling for the removal of political funds,” he stated. “However, they must be regulated to prevent misuse for political gains or personal enrichment.”

Highlighting his own role as head of government, Sonko revealed that he oversees 1.77 billion in political funds at the Prime Minister’s office. “This isn’t a personal issue,” he asserted. “Senegalese citizens demand transparency to ensure these funds aren’t exploited for selfish purposes.”

Legislative process and government accountability

Sonko underscored the imperative of transparency in public fund management, declaring that no taxpayer money should evade scrutiny. He also addressed the ongoing legislative process surrounding the issue, noting his concerns about a potential legislative proposal on political funds. “When I learned that Guy Marius Sagna was preparing to submit a draft law, I advised the president that it would be counterproductive for the legislature to lead this initiative—it was the executive’s responsibility,” he explained. “I’ve already disagreed with his televised arguments. If the president’s review is delayed, I will push the proposal through the Council of Ministers myself.”