The era of theatrical political maneuvering and rally slogans has definitively concluded. Senegal now confronts a period of national reckoning. As the National Delegate for Political Life at Guem Sa Bopp, I cannot remain a silent observer while Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko steers our Republic towards economic, social, and reputational peril.

 

What this administration desperately attempts to portray as a “transparency initiative” concerning an alleged hidden debt is, in reality, the most significant reputational damage and the gravest financial misstep in independent Senegal’s history. Driven by deep-seated political animosity and an overwhelming urge to discredit his predecessors, Ousmane Sonko chose to tarnish Senegal’s esteemed international standing on the altar of global markets. By dramatically publicizing unverified figures prior to any legal validation, he did not audit the past; he jeopardized the nation’s future.

 

Listening to him disclose such sensitive data with the casualness of a café commentator, one might cynically search for an excuse. Perhaps he momentarily believed he was merely expressing an opinion as a political party leader, not yet wielding the full instruments of power. Did he still imagine himself on a neighborhood rally stage, rousing an adoring crowd, tragically forgetting that he is no longer an opposition figure without responsibility, but the Prime Minister of the Republic of Senegal? This persistent ‘opposition mindset,’ an inability to embrace the gravitas of a statesman, led him to commit an irreparable error. When one holds the levers of state, every word carries the weight of billions. His apparent unfamiliarity with financial mechanisms has transformed his rhetoric into the most destructive weapon against our economy.

 

The denigration of Senegal’s sovereign signature. The disdain for our national brand.

 

For decades, through successive democratic transitions, our nation painstakingly forged its international credibility through impeccable financial diplomacy and a respected sovereign signature. In a single press conference, fueled by resentment, Ousmane Sonko trampled this sacred legacy.

 

To declare before the world’s cameras that the Senegalese state had misrepresented its accounts constitutes an act of hostility against the vital interests of the homeland. No responsible leader would intentionally undermine their own country’s creditworthiness. In an attempt to harm his former adversaries, he opted to destabilize present-day Senegal.

 

This alarming signal triggered punitive actions from international rating agencies. By downgrading Senegal’s financial profile, Ousmane Sonko has made access to capital more challenging and diminished the country’s attractiveness for investors.

 

The macroeconomic catastrophe. State amateurism quantified.

 

Political recklessness carries a steep price. Current indicators reveal a terrifying reality for our national sovereignty.

 

Growth forecasts have been significantly lowered, plummeting from 6.7% to 2.2%. Over four percentage points of national wealth have evaporated due to disastrous government communication.

 

The suspension of the $1.8 billion program with the IMF has plunged Senegal into an unprecedented crisis of confidence.

 

To bridge the financial void he himself created, the government is now compelled to resort to more costly and riskier borrowing mechanisms. This is the stark reality behind promises of radical change.

 

The suffocation of the real economy. Businesses struggling, investments stalled, and widespread unemployment.

 

At Guem Sa Bopp, we champion hard work, private initiative, and the ingenuity of our entrepreneurs. Yet, the real economy now finds itself on its knees.

 

New business registrations have plummeted by over 30%. Fear and uncertainty have paralyzed investment and stifled entrepreneurial spirit.

 

The freeze on domestic debt payments has crippled Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), artisans, and construction companies. Lacking vital cash flow, layoffs are multiplying. In an environment where unemployment hovers near 23%, thousands of Senegalese are losing their jobs and their dignity.

 

Even the academic sector is not immune. Universities and training institutions are bearing the brunt of a budgetary policy that sacrifices the future of our youth.

 

The social ordeal and regional decline. The unequivocal verdict of the RNU.

 

Behind these statistics lies the profound suffering of families.

 

Data from the Registre National Unique (RNU) reveals a troubling rise in social vulnerability and poverty. A growing number of households are falling into precarious situations.

 

Debt servicing now consumes 5,500 billion FCFA. This situation severely constrains the state’s room for maneuver and places a heavy burden on the cost of living for ordinary citizens.

 

Jambaars, stand up.

 

It is imperative that the Senegalese people open their eyes. The ‘hidden debt’ narrative has become a convenient excuse to mask a profound lack of tangible results. Confronted with their inability to fulfill promises, current leaders constantly govern by looking in the rearview mirror.

 

A great nation cannot be led by resentment, conspiracy theories, and political theatrics. Senegal deserves better than perpetual improvisation.

 

Facing unemployment approaching 23%, a more than 30% drop in business creation, and increasing poverty, the Senegalese must fully comprehend the consequences of this governance.

 

The Jambaars of Guem Sa Bopp rise today to advocate for rigor over amateurism, economic patriotism over sabotage, and national interest over political calculations.

 

Wishing you all an excellent Sunday.

 

Moussa Niang

 

National Delegate for Political Life, Guem Sa Bopp