Story perspectives

Senegal's PM Proposes 10-Year Prison Term for Same-Sex Relations

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ousmane Sonko, Senegal's Prime Minister, proposed raising the maximum prison term for same-sex relations to ten years.
The bill would apply to all same-sex acts and impose fines up to 10 million CFA.
It follows recent arrests of public figures under existing anti-LGBTQ laws.
Sonko criticized Western influence on LGBTQ rights and urged lawmakers to back the bill.
The National Assembly has not yet scheduled a vote.

History

Historical Context

Senegal's penal code, enacted in 1965, criminalizes same-sex relations, reflecting colonial-era influences. Recent proposals by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko aim to increase penalties, echoing persistent anti-LGBTQ sentiments. Despite international calls for decriminalization, Senegal has resisted change, leading to discrimination and violence against LGBTQ individuals, as highlighted by the 2013 UN Human Rights Committee review and ongoing societal intolerance.

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Story summary

Ousmane Sonko, Senegal's Prime Minister, proposed raising the maximum prison term for same-sex relations to ten years.
The bill would apply to all same-sex acts and impose fines up to 10 million CFA.
It follows recent arrests of public figures under existing anti-LGBTQ laws.
Sonko criticized Western influence on LGBTQ rights and urged lawmakers to back the bill.
The National Assembly has not yet scheduled a vote.

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