French court rules partially in favor of extraditing Senegalese media mogul Madiambal Diagne

French Court of Appeal Ruling on Extradition of Madiambal Diagne

A French Court of Appeal has issued a partially favorable ruling regarding the extradition of Madiambal Diagne, a prominent Senegalese media owner. Diagne, who is a vocal critic of the Senegalese government, is accused by Senegal of financial misconduct, including fraud and money laundering linked to state contracts.

Senegal issued an international arrest warrant for Diagne in September. In response to these accusations, Diagne relocated to France, expressing confidence in the French judiciary and its adherence to the rule of law. He emphasized that the decision originates from the French judiciary and not the state itself, stating his intention to pursue all legal avenues before any final assessment is made.

Diagne's legal team strongly contests the accusations from Senegalese authorities. His lawyer, Vincent Brengarth, expressed skepticism about the ruling, suggesting possible external pressure from Senegal, which has threatened to end reciprocity if Diagne and other nationals are not extradited.

Diagne’s lawyers, including Ousmane Thiam and Philippine Vaganay, plan to appeal the ruling to the Court of Cassation. Although the appeal does not automatically suspend extradition, it aims to challenge the legal foundation of the decision and ensure that procedural safeguards are fully respected.

Based on reporting by Africanews.