In a rare public display of disagreement within Senegal’s leadership, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko openly contested President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s position on the controversial issue of political funds. Speaking before lawmakers, Sonko made it clear that he does not share the President’s perspective on the matter.
Sonko’s remarks underscored a fundamental difference in approach to managing state funds allocated for political purposes. «I disagree with the President on this point. I believe he has made a mistake, and I hope he will reconsider», he stated. Contrary to widespread perceptions, Sonko emphasized that the coalition’s original commitment was never to abolish these funds entirely, but to eliminate their misuse—particularly the practice of ‘black cash’ boxes, where public money is entrusted to individuals without oversight.
The Prime Minister disclosed that the Prime Minister’s Office currently holds 1.77 billion FCFA in political funds, stressing that such resources must no longer serve as ‘election tools’ or vehicles for personal enrichment. «These funds are not meant to buy party militants or finance individual ambitions», he asserted.
To restore transparency, Sonko proposed a sweeping reform grounded in stricter parliamentary oversight, drawing inspiration from the French model. While acknowledging that certain budgets—like those linked to national security—must remain confidential, he advocated for the creation of a special parliamentary committee to verify that allocated funds are used as intended. «We cannot disclose everything publicly, but every franc must be accounted for», he explained.
In a bold move to lead by example, Sonko announced that his office would phase out cash transactions in favor of digital transfers and checks for all financial dealings. «This is a matter of principle. The funds will not be eliminated, nor am I opposed to increasing them—provided they are rigorously controlled», he concluded, as the chamber erupted in applause.