Senegal’s new constitutional council chief sworn in after historic gap

Following over a year of leadership vacuum, Senegal has a new steward at the helm of its highest constitutional authority. Ousmane Diagne, a distinguished figure in the nation’s judiciary, was formally installed as president of the Constitutional Council during a solemn swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

His appointment, formalized through Presidential Decree No. 2026-1318 signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on July 13, 2026, comes nearly 16 months after the tragic passing of his predecessor, Mamadou Badio Camara, who died in Dakar on April 10, 2025.

From the courtroom to constitutional leadership

As a career magistrate with an extensive background in Senegal’s legal system, Diagne brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His judicial career has spanned several high-profile positions, including serving as the Attorney General at the Dakar Court of Appeal, the First Advocate General at the Supreme Court, and the Republic’s Prosecutor. He also held the position of Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in the first government led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko before ascending to the presidency of the Constitutional Council.

Upholding constitutional integrity

The Constitutional Council, now under Diagne’s leadership, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Senegal’s constitutional framework. Its responsibilities include ensuring the strict adherence to the Constitution, reviewing the constitutionality of laws, and overseeing the fairness and transparency of electoral processes across the country.

The appointment aligns with the legal requirements stipulated in the texts governing the institution. According to these provisions, the presidency of the Constitutional Council is reserved for magistrates who have either served as First President or Attorney General of the Supreme Court, presidents of chambers, or distinguished law professors, state inspectors general, or lawyers with at least two decades of professional experience.