Sénégal assembly row: abdou mbow warns of public funds crisis amid heated debate

Heated parliamentary session as Abdou Mbow sounds alarm over governance risks

The National Assembly of Sénégal witnessed a heated exchange this week when Deputy Abdou Mbow took the floor to highlight what he described as a systemic threat to the nation’s financial stability. Speaking from the podium, Mbow painted a stark picture of the country’s economic challenges, warning that public funds are under serious risk due to questionable financial practices.

During his address, the lawmaker specifically targeted the Customs and Direction des Affaires Fiscales (DAF), accusing them of mismanagement that could undermine national revenue. His most pointed remark centered on allegations that former Prime Ministers had diverted funds earmarked for Casamance for political purposes—though he did not provide further evidence.

Sonko intervenes as tensions escalate

In response, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, repeatedly intervened to steer the debate back to its intended subject. Each time Mbow attempted to expand on his concerns, Sonko reminded him to stick to the agenda.

Mbow countered by referencing a prior incident involving fellow deputy Guy Marius Sagna, who, he argued, had also strayed from the topic during a previous session. « Guy Marius Sagna is a deputy. He spoke, and he attacked the president, » Mbow asserted, defending his right to address broader governance issues.

The exchange took a sharper turn when Sonko issued a stern warning: « Stick to the subject or leave the podium. » He added a veiled threat, suggesting that Mbow’s removal from the podium would resemble a past incident—without elaborating.

Undeterred, Mbow continued to press his case, declaring that Sénégal is a nation at risk unless such financial misconduct is addressed. « We cannot allow public funds to be embezzled and then hide behind parliamentary immunity, » he declared. « The people will not stay silent. »