A significant reform has taken root within Senegal’s legislative framework. On Friday, August 26, 2026, the National Assembly officially established the Public Policy Evaluation Committee (CEPP). This crucial new body fulfills a commitment stemming from the 2016 constitutional revision, marking a historic leap forward for transparency and robust governance across the nation. Through this mechanism, parliamentarians will gain the capacity to verify that public funds are utilized both effectively and transparently, enhancing Senegal public policy oversight.

Far from being just another parliamentary committee, the CEPP holds a strategic mandate: to meticulously analyze the tangible impact of state investments on the daily lives of Senegalese citizens. This institution is tasked with structuring, conducting, and monitoring the comprehensive evaluation of public policies. Its establishment empowers deputies to ensure that government spending serves its intended purpose with utmost efficiency and accountability.

No longer will parliamentarians solely focus on legislating; they will now possess a dedicated technical arm to gauge the effectiveness of governmental actions. To solidify its legitimacy, the CEPP comprises key figures from the National Assembly, ensuring broad political representation. Its composition includes the President of the National Assembly, the presidents of all parliamentary groups, the chairs of the 14 permanent commissions, the representative for non-affiliated deputies, and nine additional deputies appointed proportionally to the political forces present. This inclusive structure guarantees democratic equilibrium, integrating both the majority and the opposition into the vital process of public accountability.

Ousmane Sonko assumes leadership of the bureau

During its inaugural session, the CEPP elected its bureau to guide the committee’s initial undertakings. As anticipated, the presidency was entrusted to Ousmane Sonko, who currently serves as the President of the National Assembly. His leadership will be indispensable in endowing the committee with the necessary authority to engage effectively with the Executive branch.

He will be supported by Mohamed Sall, elected as the first vice-president, and Djimo Souaré, who was appointed as the second vice-president. The administrative management and report drafting responsibilities will be handled by Béatrice Germaine Faye and Adama Diallo, serving as first secretary and second secretary, respectively.

This election inaugurates a new era for Senegalese parliamentarism and African governance. The CEPP is expected to swiftly outline its work schedule. Citizens will now eagerly await the committee’s initial evaluation reports on critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and the economy, anticipating a new level of accountability in African current affairs.