Story perspectives

Senegal Council Blocks Amendment After Same-Sex Penalty Surge

7/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Constitutional Council vetoed the amendment on 9 July 2026, which the National Assembly approved on 29 June 2026.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye objected to the bill’s adoption process and impact on executive power.
In March 2026 Senegal doubled the prison term for same-sex activity to 10 years and criminalised its promotion.
All seven Constitutional Council members were appointed by former President Macky Sall, linking the court to political rivalries.

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Story summary

The Constitutional Council vetoed the amendment on 9 July 2026, which the National Assembly approved on 29 June 2026.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye objected to the bill’s adoption process and impact on executive power.
In March 2026 Senegal doubled the prison term for same-sex activity to 10 years and criminalised its promotion.
All seven Constitutional Council members were appointed by former President Macky Sall, linking the court to political rivalries.