Ousmane Sonko clarifies stance on political funds, emphasizes transparency
During a visit to Tivaouane for his ziara with the General Caliph of the Tidianes, Serigne Babacar Sy Mansour, Ousmane Sonko addressed the controversy surrounding political funds. The President of the National Assembly stated he has never called for the elimination of these funds, often referred to as "black funds." Instead, his position advocates for their regulation and transparent use. Sonko emphasized, "I never said that political funds or black funds should be eliminated. I said they must be regulated for more transparency." He believes citizens have a right to know how public money is used and rejected interpretations that his discourse on public fund management targets religious authorities. Sonko clarified that his concern is not about funds being given to religious leaders, but rather the lack of clarity regarding the use of public resources. The Pastef leader criticized what he views as opaque use of taxpayer money to justify certain disbursements to religious officials. He asserted that transparency in public resource management is a fundamental requirement, consistent with Islamic principles, stating, "Transparency is our credo. This is what we are fighting for," reaffirming his commitment to better regulation of public funds.
