Sénégal and fmi agreement: Thierno Bocoum calls for transparency on debt terms

The recently finalized technical agreement between Sénégal and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has intensified political discussions. Thierno Bocoum, leader of the Agir-Les Leaders movement, is urging the government to fully disclose the terms of the debt restructuring and program conditions.

In a formal statement, Bocoum emphasized the necessity of publishing the economic and financial policy memorandum. If full disclosure is not possible, he insists it should at least be submitted to the National Assembly for thorough public debate on the commitments made in the name of all Senegalese citizens.

Bocoum’s critique extends beyond the current administration. He directly challenges the roles of Ousmane Sonko and Abdourahmane Sarr, both of whom he links to the policies that led to the nation’s current debt and IMF challenges.

Ousmane Sonko’s tenure under scrutiny

Bocoum points out that Sonko’s time as Prime Minister—spanning from April 2, 2024, to May 22, 2026—placed him at the center of negotiations with the IMF. He argues that Sonko was involved in the discussions that preceded the suspension of the previous program, which he believes worsened the country’s financial standing.

Bocoum also highlights the 2024 disclosure of alleged debt anomalies, claiming this revelation triggered the IMF’s decision to suspend its program and contributed to the economic strain on Sénégal. Additionally, he criticizes the government’s reliance on regional market financing at rates he describes as far higher than concessional alternatives.

Abdourahmane Sarr’s shifting stance

The Agir-Les Leaders leader also questions the consistency of Abdourahmane Sarr’s public statements regarding debt sustainability. Sarr, a former Minister of Economy, Planning, and Cooperation, previously defended the sustainability of Sénégal’s debt and the credibility of its reduction strategy. However, Bocoum notes a recent shift in Sarr’s rhetoric, pointing to his acknowledgment that authorities are now seeking corrective measures to restore debt viability.

Bocoum asserts that all officials involved in managing this dossier must share accountability for the nation’s current economic difficulties.

His remarks come as Sénégal concludes a pivotal phase in its IMF negotiations, finalizing a new economic and financial program with the Fund.