Senegal’s prime minister challenges president over political funds management

The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, publicly challenged the President’s handling of political funds during a heated session in the National Assembly on May 22, 2026. Speaking before lawmakers during a session of urgent questions, Sonko declared his disagreement with the Head of State, stating that the approach to these funds « constitutes a mistake » that requires immediate correction.

Sonko’s remarks came as part of a broader debate on financial governance, where he emphasized the need for greater transparency. « I do not agree with the President on this issue, » he asserted, while expressing hope that the presidency would reconsider its stance. The Prime Minister’s intervention underscores a growing divide over how public resources are managed and monitored in the country.

Long-standing calls for reform

Sonko recounted his party’s persistent advocacy for stricter controls on political funds, tracing the issue back to 2014. « We first raised this debate over a decade ago, and it was included in our 2019 manifesto. Yet, by 2024, little progress had been made, » he noted. The Prime Minister stressed that the government had pledged to ensure no public funds would be deployed without proper oversight mechanisms.

Clarifying the government’s position

In response to speculation, Sonko clarified that his criticism was not directed at the existence of these special funds but rather their lack of accountability. « We have never called for their abolition—only for proper supervision, » he explained, drawing parallels with systems used in France. His position reflects a commitment to ensuring that every franc allocated is subject to scrutiny.

The Prime Minister dismissed claims that funds might be redirected to the Prime Minister’s office, pointing out that his administration already manages a budget exceeding one billion West African CFA francs. Instead, he framed the debate as a matter of governance and public trust, highlighting widespread suspicions that these resources are often misused to influence political loyalties.

« Senegalese citizens deserve to know that not a single cent is exempt from oversight, » he insisted, vowing to uphold transparency as a cornerstone of his leadership.