A report from Senegal’s Court of Auditors indicates former President Macky Sall may face legal charges for mismanagement of public finances. The audit revealed a significant budget deficit figure, prompting government officials to label Sall’s actions as criminally negligent. This could lead to unprecedented legal accountability for a past president in Senegal’s history, as the new administration seeks to address widespread claims of corruption.
A report from Senegal’s Court of Auditors has suggested that former President Macky Sall may face legal charges due to significant irregularities in public finances during his administration. This unprecedented situation arises as the government announced plans to summon Sall to court following findings that challenged official financial figures from his tenure.
Sall, who served as president from 2012 to 2024, is implicated in severe mismanagement of public funds, with the report revealing a budget deficit for 2023 of 12.3 percent, starkly contrasting the previously claimed 4.9 percent. Government spokesman Moustapha Sarre expressed that Sall could potentially be viewed as a leader of a criminal gang and stated, “Legal proceedings cannot be avoided.”
Following the electoral victory of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in March, there has been a commitment to dissociate from Sall’s administration. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has indicated a need to address the alleged corruption that transpired under Sall, with recent charges against several former officials, including a close ally of Sall.
If pursued, charges against Sall could be for “high treason,” marking a historic first in Senegal’s legal history since independence in 1960. As the political landscape shifts, the current government is also considering the repeal of an amnesty law enacted by Sall that has drawn considerable criticism.
The end of Sall’s presidency was marred by extensive political unrest, with clashes resulting in numerous fatalities, including many students. Calls for accountability regarding the excessive use of force by security forces during protests have intensified, underscoring the demand for justice.
In response to the accusations, representatives from Sall’s party condemned the government’s remarks as “unacceptable,” arguing that it is improper to label a former president in such a derogatory manner. Despite the controversies, Sall’s administration has yet to release an official casualty count from the protests.
In summary, former President Macky Sall of Senegal is facing potential legal challenges due to allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure. The recent audit report points to substantial discrepancies in the country’s public finances, which could lead to historic charges of high treason. Meanwhile, the current government aims to differentiate itself from Sall’s legacy amid growing demands for accountability regarding political violence. The political dialogue remains fraught as Sall’s supporters decry the government’s handling of the situation.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
