Magistrate Ousmane Diagne has been officially sworn in as the new president of Senegal’s Constitutional Council, taking office during a solemn ceremony on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
His appointment, formalized by presidential decree n° 2026-1318 on July 13, 2026, marks the end of a prolonged vacancy at the helm of the institution. He succeeds Mamadou Badio Camara, whose passing in Dakar on April 10, 2025, left the position unoccupied for over a year.
From the judiciary to the constitutional helm
With a distinguished career in Senegal’s judicial system, Ousmane Diagne brings extensive experience to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he served as Attorney General at the Dakar Court of Appeal, First Advocate General at the Supreme Court, and Public Prosecutor. He also held the position of Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in the first government led by Ousmane Sonko.
His selection aligns with the legal requirements for the presidency of the Constitutional Council, which mandate a background in high judicial office. Eligible candidates include former First Presidents or Attorneys General of the Supreme Court, Chamber Presidents, tenured law professors, State Inspectors General, or lawyers with at least twenty years of practice.
The Constitutional Council’s pivotal role
The Constitutional Council, now led by Ousmane Diagne, is a cornerstone of Senegal’s democratic framework. Its responsibilities include:
- Upholding constitutional principles to ensure adherence to the country’s foundational laws.
- Reviewing legislation for compliance with constitutional standards.
- Overseeing electoral integrity to safeguard the fairness and transparency of national elections.
This institution plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of power and reinforcing public trust in Senegal’s democratic processes.
