Senegal’s parliament has passed a new law that significantly increases penalties for same-sex relationships. 

Lawmakers overwhelmingly approved the measure, with 135 members voting in favor, none opposing it and three abstaining. The legislation now awaits the signature of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye before it can officially become law.

If enacted, the bill will double the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations from five years to 10 years. It will also criminalise what the government describes as the “promotion” of homosexuality. The proposal was a key campaign pledge by President Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

Government defends the bill

Read Also
Migori Youth hold Mombasa United to stay top of the NSL log Football
Tusker rally past Ulinzi to reach FKF Cup semifinals as Nairobi United bow out Football
Red hot Omanyala to orchestrate Kenya's 4x100m charge at World Relays today Athletics

Authorities say the legislation reflects the values and cultural beliefs of many Senegalese citizens. Government spokesperson Amadou Moustapha Ndieck Sarré dismissed criticism from international organisations, arguing that the country has the right to shape laws that align with its social norms.

According to him, the majority of Senegalese people do not support homosexuality and believe it conflicts with local traditions and cultural values.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

Conservative groups in the country have also long pushed for stricter laws. Activists from the organisation And Sàmm Jikko Yi, which campaigns to protect what it calls Senegalese moral values, have repeatedly urged the government to toughen existing legislation against same-sex relationships.

Rights groups raise concerns

However, human rights organisations say the law could worsen discrimination and expose LGBTQ individuals to harassment and violence.

Researchers from Human Rights Watch warn that criminalising people based on their sexual orientation undermines fundamental human rights such as equality and protection from discrimination.

Larissa Kojoué, a researcher with the group, said such laws could intensify fear among already marginalised communities and potentially lead to increased abuse.

Alioune Tine, founder of the think tank Afrikajom Center, cautioned that while governments should respond to social concerns, they must also ensure respect for human rights and maintain policies that support public health.

Also Read: Frankie JustGymIt addresses LGBTQ rumours

Concerns about public health impact

Some health experts worry the tougher law could have unintended consequences for Senegal’s fight against HIV.

The country has been widely praised for maintaining one of the lowest HIV prevalence rates in West Africa, with about 42,000 to 44,000 people living with the virus and a national adult prevalence of roughly 0.3%, according to the Ministry of Health.

Dr Safiétou Thiam, executive secretary of the National Council for the Fight Against Aids (CNLS), warned that criminalising LGBTQ communities could discourage people from seeking testing and treatment.

She noted that Senegal has spent more than three decades building a successful response to HIV, and policies that stigmatise vulnerable populations could undermine those achievements.

Arrests and wider regional trend

The debate comes after police recently arrested 12 men accused of being in same-sex relationships. Among those detained were public figures and a well-known journalist.

Senegal is not the only African nation tightening laws against LGBTQ people. In recent years, countries including Uganda, Burkina Faso, Mali and Ghana have introduced or considered similar legislation targeting same-sex relationships.