France, Oct. 26 -- Pastef MPs refused last Friday to vote for the supplementary budget law in the the National Assembly's finance and budgetary control committee.

They say ordinary Senegalese people will bear the burden of Lo's cuts on public spending. They also say there needs to be greater clarity on how multi-million euro loans are being spent. Another debate on the budget will be held on Tuesday in the National Assembly.

"We are not dealing with adversaries," Lo told RFI. "We are talking about the same party. I remain convinced that if everyone is open to dialogue, we will find a solution and ensure that this supplementary budget is finally passed."

His comments come as around 2,500 athletes under 17 prepare to travel to Senegal to...