Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds

The Kiiraay Les Patriotes Républicains party has accused Ousmane Sonko of using the ‘Jamm pour la Paix en Casamance’ fund for purposes unrelated to its original mandate. According to the party, Sonko allegedly justified part of the spending by citing the purchase of vehicles and the renovation of an administrative building—expenses they claim have no direct link to peacebuilding efforts in the Casamance.

The party’s statement highlights a perceived inconsistency in the government’s commitment to transparency, arguing that public funds should be subject to the same scrutiny regardless of who manages them. ‘Transparency must not be selective,’ the party declared, emphasizing the need for accountability in the use of state resources.

Legal and Political Context

These accusations follow a Constitutional Council ruling that deemed unconstitutional a law passed by the national assembly—then dominated by the PASTEF party—to regulate special funds. While the political fallout continues, Ousmane Sonko has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.

The Casamance, a region plagued by decades of conflict, has long been a focal point for peace initiatives. Critics argue that misallocation of funds intended for reconciliation efforts undermines trust in government institutions and prolongs instability in the area.