This extraordinary session unfolds against a backdrop of heightened political tension in Senegal. The Pastef party is notably bringing back to the agenda a proposed amendment to Article 37 of the Constitution. This change would mandate the head of state to declare their assets at the conclusion of their term, in addition to the existing requirement upon assuming office.

This specific provision was previously included in a constitutional revision approved by deputies in late June. However, the Constitutional Council subsequently invalidated the text, delivering a setback to Ousmane Sonko’s political alignment. The current parliamentary initiative aims to reintroduce this crucial reform in an alternative format.

The second legislative proposal championed by the majority focuses on special appropriations, commonly referred to as “secret funds.” These allocations, designated for the presidency and the prime ministry, could face significantly increased scrutiny, potentially through a dedicated, limited commission of parliamentarians.

The oversight of special appropriations at the core of contention

The management of these particular funds has emerged as a primary point of contention between Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This disagreement played a significant role in precipitating the rift between the two prominent political figures last May.

According to Moussa Diaw, a professor of political science at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, these parliamentary actions underscore Pastef’s determination to compel the President towards greater transparency and accountability. The academic also draws a connection between this legislative offensive and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s recent establishment of his new political party, Kiiraay.

Both political texts are slated for examination under an urgent procedure. Their ultimate adoption, however, will hinge on the final substance of the parliamentary debates and, if necessary, the subsequent review by the Constitutional Council.

The session also encompasses three additional government-sponsored bills. These address critical reforms concerning the Social Security Code, the Labor Code, and digital security – vital aspects of African governance and current affairs.

The digital security legislation comes in the wake of a series of cyberattacks targeting Senegalese public institutions. Since October, at least three entities have been affected, including the Public Treasury, based on available information. This proposed law aims to establish a robust framework to enhance the protection of the state’s digital infrastructure and sensitive data, a growing concern across the continent news landscape.