Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed into law a contentious bill that doubles prison terms for same-sex relations to up to 10 years and criminalizes the “promotion” of homosexuality. The move, which follows overwhelming parliamentary approval earlier this month, fulfills campaign promises made by Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko ahead of the 2024 elections.
The new law significantly raises fines and broadens the scope of offenses, with those accused of supporting or financing such activities now facing jail time. According to government officials, the legislation aims to uphold traditional values and morals.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from international human rights groups. UN rights chief Volker Turk warned that the law undermines fundamental freedoms, including dignity, privacy, and expression. “This law flies in the face of the sacrosanct human rights we all enjoy,” Turk stated.
Senegal’s penal code already carried an article imposing up to five years’ jail and fines for “acts against nature”. The new law doubles the maximum term and allows for fines of up to 10 million CFA francs. The government maintains its stance amid growing domestic support for tougher measures.
The law’s passage has been marked by a surge in arrests of men on suspicion of “acts against nature”. Human rights organizations say the measure is part of a broader trend of stricter anti-LGBTQ+ laws in the region.
The international community continues to watch Senegal’s next steps, as the country balances its laws with global human rights standards.
Source: #DWAfrica
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Author: Stella Sunu
