In a formal ceremony held this Tuesday, August 11, 2026, Ousmane Diagne was officially installed as the new president of Senegal’s Constitutional Council, taking over an institution that had been without leadership for over a year.

His appointment, formalized through presidential decree n°2026-1318 dated July 13, 2026, was signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. He now replaces Mamadou Badio Camara, whose passing in Dakar on April 10, 2025, left the institution vacant for more than a year.

From prosecutor to constitutional guardian

With an extensive career in Senegal’s judiciary, Ousmane Diagne brings decades of 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 Prosecutor of the Republic. He also held the position of Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in the first government led by Ousmane Sonko.

The constitutional framework governing the Constitutional Council requires its president to meet strict professional criteria. The role is reserved for magistrates who have served as First President or Attorney General of the Supreme Court, presidents of chambers, or distinguished legal scholars. Alternatively, senior state inspectors or highly experienced lawyers with at least 20 years of practice are also eligible.

Mandate and responsibilities of the council

The Constitutional Council serves as Senegal’s highest constitutional authority. Its primary responsibilities include:

• Upholding constitutional integrity by ensuring laws comply with the nation’s foundational charter;
• Verifying electoral processes to safeguard the fairness and transparency of voting systems;
• Adjudicating disputes related to elections and constitutional interpretations.

With Ousmane Diagne at its helm, the council is poised to play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of power and reinforcing democratic governance in Senegal.