In his victory speech to Senegalese in March, President Faye had pledged to fight corruption, rule with transparency, rebuild national institutions and reform the economy. His presidency draws great support from Senegalese youths especially the unemployed. This declaration is therefore seen in fulfilment of his campaign promise made to the population.
A news commentary described President Faye’s anti-corruption drive as new to African presidency, a continent where, for decades, a lack of accountability and transparency has plagued politics, with leaders often operating in secrecy both before and during their terms, which has fuelled corruption and stifled development. While in power, many African leaders often skimp on accountability and transparency through a variety of means.
Last week, Senegal’s Constitutional Council announced through release of verifiable documents, President Faye’s net worth: He owns a $450,000 house, undeveloped land worth $29,600 and two cars. He has $37,000 in his bank accounts. He also has outstanding loans worth $79,000.
In March, a press release issued by his coalition says Diomaye owns an undeveloped land with a lease of cumulative value of 48,350,000 CFA francs. However, details relating to his built real estate have not been published, with the former pastef secretary general explaining, “Time has not allowed me to evaluate it exhaustively, as required by the expertise necessary for this statement.”
Declaration of assets is required by the electoral laws of Senegal. Analysts saw the law as dormant and ineffective in combating corruption in public offices. For example, after serving two terms, President Macky Sall only signed the revival of an anti-corruption legislation in November 2023, through a cabinet session.
The Council of Ministers meeting held on November 22, 2023 at the State House, under the leadership of the Head of State, Mr. Macky SALL, considered and adopted:
The bill amending Law No. 2012 – 30 of December 28, 2012 establishing the National Office for the Fight against Fraud and Corruption (OFNAC);
The bill amending law no. 2014 – 17 of April 2, 2014 relating to the declaration of assets.
Further to this law, Chapter IV has made specific provisions on the “Processing of the asset declaration.”
Article 5 states that the National Office for the Fight against Fraud and Corruption ensures the processing of declarations received as well as observations made, where applicable, by taxable persons on the evolution of their assets.
“The laws have not been respected with officials making false or sometimes unverified declarations before taking office, and even ignoring the requirements with no consequences after they leave office,” said Lamine, a supporter of the movement Le Patriot, in Dakar last week.
Lamine thinks that the government of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko will make further amendments to the anti-corruption law, wage a war on corruption not just for public officials but for businesses and investors in Senegal.
Meanwhile, the assets declaration continues with PM Sonko and the members of his cabinet to follow after President Faye.
