Sonko accuses Western powers of cultural imposition

Addressing lawmakers, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko condemned what he described as the West’s “tyranny” over LGBTQ+ issues. “With eight billion people worldwide, it’s a tiny fraction we call the West—wealthy, media-controlling—that seeks to dictate values to the rest of humanity.” His remarks came as Senegal faces mounting criticism over its recent legislative moves.

Stricter penalties now in force

Adopted in early March and signed into law by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31st, the amendment increases prison sentences for same-sex relations to up to ten years, up from five. During his address, Sonko dismissed any possibility of suspending or delaying enforcement of the stricter provisions.

A deeply divisive issue

In this predominantly Muslim West African nation, LGBTQ+ rights remain highly contentious across political, religious, and social spheres. While human rights advocates have sharply criticized the new law, supporters argue it upholds Senegal’s cultural and religious identity. The government maintains it is asserting national sovereignty against foreign interference.