Ousmane diagne takes oath as Senegal’s constitutional council president

Ousmane Diagne sworn in as president of Senegal’s Constitutional Council

The appointment of Ousmane Diagne as president of Senegal’s Constitutional Council marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s judicial landscape. Appointed by presidential decree in July 2026, he steps into the role following the passing of his predecessor, Mamadou Badio Camara, whose absence left the institution vacant for over a year.

Magistrate Ousmane Diagne was formally installed in his new position on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, during a solemn swearing-in ceremony. His appointment, formalized by Presidential Decree No. 2026-1318 signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, fulfills a critical vacancy in Senegal’s highest judicial body.

Prior to this appointment, Ousmane Diagne held prominent roles within Senegal’s judicial system, including serving as Attorney General at the Dakar Court of Appeal, First Advocate General at the Supreme Court, and Public Prosecutor. He also previously served as Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in the first government led by Ousmane Sonko, bringing extensive experience to his new position.

The selection of Ousmane Diagne aligns with the constitutional criteria required for the role, which mandate that the president of the Constitutional Council must be a magistrate with experience as a First President or Attorney General of the Supreme Court, President of a Chamber, or a professor of law with at least two decades of experience. Alternatively, senior civil servants or attorneys with 20 years of practice may also qualify.

The Constitutional Council, now led by Ousmane Diagne, plays a vital role in upholding the Constitution, reviewing the constitutionality of laws, and ensuring the integrity of electoral processes in Senegal. His installation comes at a time of heightened judicial scrutiny and underscores the importance of constitutional governance in the country.