This extraordinary parliamentary session unfolds amidst a charged political atmosphere. Pastef has notably reintroduced discussions on amending Article 37 of the Constitution. This proposed 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.

While this provision was part of a constitutional revision previously approved by deputies in late June, the Constitutional Council subsequently invalidated the text, representing a setback for Ousmane Sonko’s camp. The current parliamentary drive seeks to reintroduce this reform through an alternative legislative approach.

The second legislative proposal championed by the majority addresses special credits, widely known as «fonds secrets» (secret funds). These allocations, designated for the presidency and the prime minister’s office, could face heightened scrutiny, potentially through a specialized committee of lawmakers.

Control over special credits at the heart of the disagreement

The administration of these funds stands as a central point of contention between Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This dispute played a significant role in the breakdown of their relationship last May.

According to Moussa Diaw, a political science professor at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, these legislative efforts reflect Pastef’s determination to compel the president towards greater transparency and accountability. The academic further connects this parliamentary push to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s establishment of his new political party, Kiiraay.

These two significant political bills will undergo an expedited review process. However, their ultimate adoption remains contingent on the substance of the parliamentary debates and, if necessary, the Constitutional Council’s scrutiny.

The session also encompasses three additional government-sponsored bills. These proposals address the Social Security Code, the Labor Code, and digital security.

This digital security legislation follows a series of cyberattacks targeting public institutions across Sénégal. Since October, at least three government entities, including the Public Treasury, have reportedly been compromised. The proposed law aims to establish a framework designed to bolster the protection of state digital infrastructure and data.