SUNTV GLOBAL REPORT
The government of Senegal has moved to toughen penalties for same-sex relations, submitting a controversial new bill to parliament that proposes significantly longer prison sentences and criminalises advocacy linked to such relationships.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko presented the draft legislation, which seeks to raise the maximum punishment for same-sex relations from the current one to five years in prison to a new range of five to ten years.
Under the proposed law, anyone found guilty of “advocating for same-sex relations” could also face between three and seven years behind bars — a provision that has already sparked concern among human rights observers.
Addressing lawmakers, Sonko stated that “anyone committing an act against nature” would face stricter penalties, adding that the maximum sentence would apply in cases involving minors.
The bill was approved by ministers last week before being forwarded to parliament, coming shortly after a wave of arrests involving individuals accused of same-sex relations. Reports indicate that among those detained were two prominent local celebrities and a well-known journalist.
The proposed legal changes follow years of pressure from religious groups in the country, many of whom have staged protests demanding tougher enforcement and harsher punishments.
Parliament has yet to announce a date for debate or a vote on the bill. If passed, the law would mark one of the most stringent crackdowns on same-sex relations and related advocacy in the region.
