Up to 10 Years in Prison Proposed for Same-S*x Relations in Senegal
SENEGAL – A controversial bill in Senegal is drawing global attention after lawmakers proposed increasing prison terms for same-sex relationships to as much as ten years.
The government of Senegal is moving to significantly tighten its stance against same-s*x relations after Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko introduced a bill that would double the maximum prison sentence for such acts.
Under the proposed legislation, the current penalty of one to five years in prison would increase to five to ten years. Reports indicate that the cabinet approved the measure last week before it was formally submitted to parliament on Tuesday, February 24. According to Sonko, the bill seeks to reinforce the country’s existing laws that already criminalize same-s*x relations in the predominantly Muslim and socially conservative nation.
In his address to lawmakers, Sonko stated that anyone who commits an “act against nature” would face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years. If the act involves a minor, the maximum penalty of ten years would automatically apply. He added that the offense would remain classified as a misdemeanour, or a lower category of crime, under the country’s legal framework.
The proposal also introduces penalties for individuals found guilty of promoting or advocating same-s*x relations. Those convicted could face prison terms of three to seven years, along with fines of up to 10 million CFA francs. Additionally, the bill outlines separate penalties for individuals who accuse others of homosexuality without sufficient evidence, aiming to address potential misuse of the law.
The move follows a series of arrests this month involving men accused of violating Senegal’s anti-LGBT law. Local reports estimate that around 30 individuals have been detained, including two well-known personalities and a prominent journalist.
Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have criticized the proposed legislation. Advocacy groups argue that the measure violates internationally recognized human rights standards, particularly the rights to equality and protection against discrimination.
The debate over LGBT rights has long been a sensitive and divisive issue in Senegal. Some groups have opposed pro-LGBT activism, framing it as foreign interference in domestic affairs. In recent years, religious organizations have staged demonstrations calling for stricter punishments against homosexuality.
No date has yet been set for a parliamentary vote on the bill. However, with Sonko’s Pastef party controlling the legislature, discussions are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
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