In a fresh political debate shaking the corridors of power in Dakar, Member of Parliament Guy Marius Sagna has publicly disclosed the amounts allocated to opposition leader Ousmane Sonko under the political funds system during his tenure as Prime Minister. According to the Pastef deputy, Sonko received a total of 1.7 billion West African CFA francs—funds he claims were disbursed without any institutional oversight.

Unregulated political financing under scrutiny

The revelation has reignited discussions about transparency in Senegal’s political financing practices. While Sagna acknowledges that the legal framework allows for such allocations, he points out that these funds operate entirely outside institutional control—a situation he describes as deeply problematic.

« These amounts are technically legal, but they evade all forms of accountability, » Sagna stated, emphasizing the lack of transparency surrounding political funds in the country. His comments come amid broader concerns about the management of public resources, particularly after similar revelations about funds at the disposal of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, which reportedly exceed 8 billion CFA francs, spread across various financial mechanisms including special funds and sovereign reserves.

Contradictions fuel political tensions

Sagna’s disclosure has intensified criticism of Ousmane Sonko, who has long positioned himself as a champion of stricter regulations on political funds. The deputy’s remarks highlight what he calls a glaring contradiction: Sonko, who once advocated for greater transparency in political financing, now stands accused of benefiting from the very system he publicly criticized.

« This is the sorcery of some politicians—speaking one way in public while acting another, » Sagna remarked on social media, questioning the sincerity of Sonko’s reformist rhetoric. His comments have added fuel to an already tense political climate, with growing calls for accountability in the use of public funds.

What’s next for Senegal’s political financing debate?

As the controversy deepens, analysts are closely watching whether this latest disclosure will prompt legislative action or further polarize the political landscape. The debate over political funds remains a contentious issue, with many questioning the effectiveness of existing oversight mechanisms.