In a scathing critique delivered on national television, prominent commentator Badara Gadiaga has accused former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of reckless financial handling during his tenure in the Senegal government. The allegations surfaced 142 days after Sonko’s removal from office on May 22, 2026, with Gadiaga claiming the ex-premier had nearly depleted the allocated political funds.

According to Gadiaga’s calculations, Sonko’s administration expended an average of 12 million CFA francs daily, leaving only 70 million CFA francs for his successor, Al Aminou Lo. This revelation comes at a time when students like Abdoulaye Ba have faced tragic circumstances, with Ba’s death highlighting the gap between official economic recovery plans and public fund allocation.

The commentator drew parallels between these financial discrepancies and the broader Plan de redressement économique et social (PRES), questioning the transparency of fund utilization. Gadiaga emphasized that Sonko’s monthly allocation of over 300,000 CFA francs from these funds starkly contrasted with the struggles of students awaiting essential financial support.

Allegations of « vampirism » in governance

Describing the situation as « vampirism, » Gadiaga condemned the disparity between public fund mismanagement and the pressing needs of citizens. His remarks underscore growing concerns about accountability in governance, particularly as Senegal navigates economic challenges. The critique adds to the broader discourse on fiscal responsibility and transparency in public office.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter