Senegal ASER dispute intensifies over leaked ministerial note

A political controversy is intensifying in Senegal regarding the Agence sénégalaise d'électrification rurale (ASER) and a contract involving the Spanish firm AEE Power EPC. A leaked confidential note from August 2024, signed by former Energy Minister Birame Souleye Diop, has become a focal point of the dispute.

Deputy Thierno Alassane Sall has used the document to accuse Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of withholding information. Sall claims the note proves the administration was aware of alleged irregularities, including the potential misappropriation of a 56 million euro startup advance intended for the electrification of 928 localities. Specifically, allegations suggest a portion of these funds may have been used to pay bonuses at SONAC.

The dispute also involves a breakdown in the partnership between AEE Power EPC and its local subsidiary, AEE Power Sénégal. While the Spanish parent company has alleged fraudulent invoicing by the local branch, the note indicates these claims were unverified at the time. The regulatory body ARCOP had previously recommended continuing the project, but the Spanish firm declined mediation.

Separately, the Agence pour l'Économie et la Maîtrise de l'Énergie (AEME) has launched a national campaign to promote energy sobriety and efficiency in response to high temperatures and increased electricity demand, targeting households and professionals across Senegal.