Politics, Former Official Speaks Out">
Embezzlement Allegations Rock Senegalese Politics, Former Official Speaks Out
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DAKAR — May 9, 2024 —
In Dakar, Senegal, allegations of embezzlement are roiling Senegalese politics as a former deputy accuses the previous administration of corruption. The accusations concern the handling of public funds, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising serious questions regarding openness. The report, now with the justice system, could lead to charges. Experts predict the scandal could have significant impacts on the political landscape.
Allegations of Embezzlement Rock Senegalese Politics: Former Official Speaks Out
Dakar, Senegal – A firestorm of accusations has erupted in Senegal, with a former deputy leveling serious allegations of widespread embezzlement against the previous administration. the accusations center around the Alliance for the Republic (APR), the party of former President Macky Sall, and its handling of public funds, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Report Transmission Controversy
The controversy began after a report, compiled in 2022, was recently transmitted to the justice system. According to the former deputy, the report’s journey to the courts was fraught with political obstacles. He stated:
It was developed under the regime of President Macky Sall.The new regime of President Diomaye and Prime Minister Sonko only transmitted the file to justice, which Macky Sall refused to do.
Former Deputy, Facebook Post
This statement suggests a deliberate attempt by the previous administration to suppress the report and shield individuals from potential prosecution. The current administration’s decision to forward the file is being viewed by some as a commitment to transparency and accountability.
“Association of Predators”: Damning Accusations Against the APR
The former deputy did not hold back in his assessment of the APR, describing it in stark terms:
I was not wrong to consider the APR as an association of predators of the Republic. We are there, in real size.
Former Deputy
He further elaborated on the alleged scale of the financial impropriety, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic:
The extent of the embezzlement of public funds is shocking, especially in a context of generalized containment of populations fighting against COVID-19. What cynicism.
Former Deputy
These accusations paint a picture of systemic corruption and a disregard for the welfare of the Senegalese people during a time of crisis.
growing Involvement of government Ministers
Perhaps the most alarming aspect of the allegations is the purported involvement of high-ranking government officials. The former parliamentarian warned:
The number of government ministers involved, which will increase in the coming weeks, will inevitably raise the question of the political obligation of president Macky Sall and the APR.
Former parliamentarian
This statement suggests that the scandal could reach the highest levels of the previous administration, potentially implicating former President Sall himself.
Institutional Concerns and Centralized power
The former deputy also criticized the previous regime’s decision to centralize the management of the Force COVID-19 fund, particularly through the abolition of the post of Prime Minister. He argued that this move undermined institutional checks and balances:
I had proposed to activate the delegations commission, they refused.
Former Deputy
He views this refusal as evidence of a “serious institutional drift,” suggesting a deliberate effort to consolidate power and avoid scrutiny.
