Independence of the Senegalese judiciary: Souleymane Teliko advocates reforms to consolidate the rule of law

The independence of the judiciary must not only be a constitutional principle, it must be translated into practice. This was the central message delivered by the Director General of the Judicial Training Center (CFJ), Souleymane Teliko, at the graduation ceremony for the 20th class of trainee judges (2024-2026) this Tuesday at the Presidential Palace.

In front of the highest authorities, including the head of state, magistrates, teachers and the families of the recipients, Mr. Teliko recalled that "institutions only live through the customs that accompany them", echoing the famous formula of the constitutionalist Georges Vedel to praise the organization of this ceremony, which he considers a symbol of respect for republican traditions and attachment to judicial institutions.

The ceremony marked the graduation of 35 new magistrates, now qualified to perform their duties after two years of training. Addressing them, Souleymane Teliko commended their commitment and rigor, urging them to become "the builders of justice" and to serve the rule of law and the Republic with integrity.

In his presentation on the theme "The Independence of the Judiciary, Foundation of the Rule of Law ," Souleymane Teliko emphasized that judicial independence is the cornerstone of modern democracies. Drawing on the teachings of Montesquieu and Duguit, as well as the Senegalese Constitution, he argued that the rule of law cannot be guaranteed without a judiciary free from all influence.

Referring to the national context, he cited the decision rendered on February 15, 2024 by the constitutional judge, which had reaffirmed the primacy of the Constitution in the face of the project to postpone the presidential election, thus illustrating the essential role of justice in preserving democratic principles.

Souleymane Teliko nevertheless believed that reforms were still necessary to consolidate this independence. He specifically advocated for strengthening the statutory guarantees for judges, greater budgetary autonomy for the courts, and a reform of the High Council of the Judiciary so that it would have genuine powers of proposal and decision-making.

According to him, these developments would strengthen citizens' trust in their justice system and deepen the rule of law in a lasting way.

The Director General of the Judicial Training Center emphasized the need to continue reforms without abandoning the achievements of the Senegalese justice system, renowned for its professionalism across the African continent. Quoting Jean Jaurès, he called for the judicial institution to evolve so that it remains true to its purpose.