Ousmane diagne takes helm at Senegal’s constitutional council

The Senegalese presidency has confirmed the appointment of Ousmane Diagne as the new President of the Constitutional Council, following a decree signed on July 13 by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The former Minister of Justice steps into the role left vacant by the late Mamadou Badio Camara, whose tenure ended with his passing.

This pivotal appointment comes shortly after the Constitutional Council delivered its advisory opinion on the Senegalese constitutional reform, which was subsequently ratified by the National Assembly. The move marks a significant milestone for President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who had sought the Council’s validation for the constitutional amendments.

For the Pastef party, led by Ousmane Sonko, the Council’s decision represents a setback in their efforts to reshape the constitutional framework. The party had championed the reform initiative, which now faces a critical legal hurdle.

Established as the guardian of constitutional principles, the Constitutional Council in Senegal holds the responsibility for reviewing the constitutionality of laws, adjudicating electoral disputes, and ensuring the integrity of voting processes.