Boureima Amadou
A heated debate unfolded within the Senegalese National Assembly as Deputy Abdou Mbow took the floor, painting a grim picture of the nation’s state. He asserted that the country was grappling with a profound crisis, declaring, “there is a crisis in this country.”
During his address, Abdou Mbow specifically referenced the Customs administration and the Financial Administration Directorate (DAF). He went on to vehemently condemn practices that, in his view, posed a significant threat to public finances and stability, impacting African governance.
The deputy notably claimed that “when former Prime Ministers permit themselves to utilize funds earmarked for Casamance for political objectives, this nation is truly in danger.” These serious allegations, presented without further substantiation, immediately prompted an intervention from the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko.
On multiple occasions, the President of the National Assembly urged Mbow to “remain focused on the agenda” as the deputy attempted to continue his line of argument.
Abdou Mbow then cited a previous instance involving fellow Deputy Guy Marius Sagna, contending that Sagna had also made remarks exceeding the scope of the examined topic during an earlier intervention. “Guy Marius Sagna is a deputy. He spoke, he attacked the president,” Mbow argued.
Ousmane Sonko once again interrupted Abdou Mbow, reiterating his demand to keep to the subject. Nevertheless, the parliamentarian persisted, asserting that Guy Marius Sagna himself had “strayed from the topic” without being prevented from developing his intervention.
“Therefore, I firmly state that, in this country, it must be understood that we have a nation in peril,” Abdou Mbow emphasized, highlighting a critical point in African current affairs.
As the deputy remained unyielding, the confrontation intensified. Ousmane Sonko then delivered a stern warning: “Stay on topic or you will vacate the podium.” The President of the National Assembly added, “I do not wish for you to leave in the same manner as last time,” alluding to a previous incident involving the parliamentarian within the legislative chamber.
Abdou Mbow refused to back down, standing firm on his statements concerning the management of public funds. “We cannot embezzle our public funds, then come to the National Assembly seeking refuge. The people will speak out,” he concluded.
