Senegal’s constitutional council gets new president

Dakar, July 13, 2026 — A major shift has taken place at the helm of Senegal’s highest judicial body. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has appointed Ousmane Diagne as the new President of the Constitutional Council, replacing the late Mamadou Badio Camara.

This appointment, formalized through Decree No. 2026-1318, marks a significant institutional comeback for Diagne, who previously served as Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals in the first government led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko during Faye’s early tenure. His removal from the executive team during later reshuffles did little to dim his standing in the legal and political spheres.

Ousmane Diagne brings a wealth of experience to this role, having previously held key positions such as Prosecutor General at the Dakar Court of Appeal and First Advocate General at the Supreme Court. His deep understanding of constitutional matters positions him well to navigate the complexities of Senegal’s judicial landscape, especially in times of political and electoral disputes.

The Constitutional Council, often called upon to resolve institutional and electoral conflicts, has faced heightened scrutiny in recent months. Diagne’s leadership is expected to reinforce its role in maintaining constitutional order and fairness. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as the Council continues to play a critical role in shaping the country’s democratic processes.

With this move, President Faye signals a commitment to strengthening judicial independence and continuity in governance. Ousmane Diagne’s return to a leadership position within the constitutional framework underscores his enduring influence in Senegal’s legal and political arenas.