This extraordinary session unfolds amidst a charged political climate. Pastef is notably reviving discussions on amending Article 37 of the Constitution. This proposed change would mandate the head of state to declare their assets not only upon assuming office but also at the conclusion of their term, fostering greater financial transparency.

While this provision was part of a constitutional revision passed by deputies in late June, the Constitutional Council subsequently invalidated the text, delivering a setback to Ousmane Sonko’s faction. The current parliamentary initiative aims to reintroduce this crucial reform in a revised format.

The second legislative proposal championed by the majority addresses special credits, commonly known as “secret funds.” These allocations, designated for the Presidency of the Republic and the Prime Minister’s office, could face enhanced scrutiny, potentially through a dedicated, restricted parliamentary commission.

The control of special credits at the heart of the disagreement

The management of these funds stands as a primary point of contention between Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This very dispute was a contributing factor to the breakdown of their relationship last May.

Political science professor Moussa Diaw from Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis views these legislative pushes as Pastef’s strategic effort to compel the President towards greater transparency and accountability. Diaw also draws a connection between this parliamentary offensive and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s recent establishment of his new political party, Kiiraay.

The two politically charged texts will undergo an expedited review process. However, their ultimate adoption will hinge on the substance of parliamentary debates and, if necessary, the subsequent review by the Constitutional Council.

The session’s agenda also includes three government-sponsored bills. These proposals focus on key areas: the Social Security Code, the Labor Code, and national digital security.

The digital security legislation comes in the wake of a series of cyberattacks targeting Senegalese public institutions. Since October, at least three entities, including the Public Treasury, have been impacted. This proposed law seeks to establish a robust framework to enhance the protection of the state’s critical digital infrastructure and sensitive data.