The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, has publicly aired a serious disagreement with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye over the oversight of political funds—a key reform promise during their presidential campaign.

Diverging visions on political fund regulation

Speaking before lawmakers, Sonko disclosed that the legislative proposal to regulate political funds was spearheaded by Deputy Guy Marius Sagna, a move he did not formally endorse. In his view, such a critical reform should originate from the executive branch, not the National Assembly. He emphasized that he had already raised this concern with the President, urging decisive government action rather than inaction.

The President, however, responded cautiously. While acknowledging the issue, Bassirou Diomaye Faye asked Sonko to allow him time to assess the feasibility of the reform without setting a firm deadline.

Sonko warns of direct government intervention

Frustrated by the delay, Ousmane Sonko issued a clear warning: if the President continues to postpone a decision, he will not hesitate to bring the proposal directly to the Council of Ministers for adoption. This bold stance underscores the growing governance tensions between Senegal’s two highest-ranking leaders.