Babacar bâ highlights ousmane sonko’s political fund paradox in Senegal

Babacar Bâ, president of the Forum du Justiciable, has once again voiced strong criticism, highlighting what he perceives as a striking inconsistency in the discourse of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko regarding the transparency of political funds. In a recent public statement, the human rights advocate underscored that Sonko, who currently champions integrity and good governance, himself managed a political fund exceeding 1.7 billion CFA francs during his tenure at the Prime Minister’s Office – a sum Sonko had previously acknowledged publicly. This points to a significant debate within African politics.

Babacar Bâ finds the situation deeply ironic and unsustainable. The current leader of Pastef had previously launched numerous condemnations against what he termed the state’s «secret funds» (caisses noires). Yet, upon assuming office, he found himself overseeing similar financial mechanisms he had so vehemently criticized. The coordinator of the Forum du Justiciable has consistently made the issue of political funds a central focus in recent months, repeatedly demanding that the Presidency, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the National Assembly disclose the amounts received and submit to audits by the Cour des Comptes (Court of Auditors), advocating for greater accountability in governance Africa.

The president of the FJ characterizes the current governance in Senegal as nothing short of an institutional charade. He has issued a fervent appeal to the Senegalese populace, urging them to awaken, unite, and reclaim their destiny. This impassioned plea marks a departure from his usual technical approach when addressing matters of public finance management, reflecting a deeper concern for society Africa.