Sonko Softens Opposition to Senegal Debt Restructuring as IMF Talks Resume Over 132% Debt Load
Updated
Updated · Africa.com · Jun 22
Sonko Softens Opposition to Senegal Debt Restructuring as IMF Talks Resume Over 132% Debt Load
2 articles · Updated · Africa.com · Jun 22
Summary
Ousmane Sonko said Senegal must respond pragmatically to worsening economic conditions, easing his earlier rejection of IMF-backed debt restructuring as talks with the fund restart.
The shift marks a clear change from November, when Sonko called restructuring a “disgrace,” and aligns more closely with broader government signals that payment pressures are forcing a rethink.
Senegal’s debt stood at 132% of GDP at end-2024 after authorities uncovered major underreporting under former President Macky Sall, a revelation that led the IMF to suspend a $1.8 billion program.
Now speaker of the National Assembly after being ousted as prime minister, Sonko said he is “not here to obstruct” President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s agenda, while still warning against measures that could damage Senegal’s long-term economic path.