DAKAR - Senegal's president and the political party he belongs to have issued conflicting statements over the leadership of the ruling coalition, a clear sign of dissension among top leaders amid drawn-out talks with the International Monetary Fund.

The West African country is trying to negotiate a new lending programme after the IMF froze a $1.8 billion financial support package last year. That decision was taken after the government disclosed hidden debts that are now estimated at more than $11 billion, which it blames on the previous government.