Ousmane Sonko rejects western criticism over Senegal’s anti-homosexuality law

On May 22, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko forcefully defended his government’s stance against homosexuality during a heated session in the National Assembly. This marked his fifth appearance before lawmakers since the Patriotes of Senegal (PASTEF) took office.

The Prime Minister was questioned about the recently enacted legislation that imposes stricter prison sentences for same-sex relations. In just three months, over a hundred individuals have been detained under this law, prompting public outcry from African intellectuals who signed a petition calling for a moratorium on May 18. Sonko, however, made it clear that the government has no intention of suspending the controversial measure.

Emphasizing the need to curb what he termed the “spread of homosexuality,” Sonko called for an “absolute, impartial and flawless” enforcement of the law. He underscored that no one, including high-profile figures linked to his administration recently arrested, would be exempt from legal consequences.

The Prime Minister dismissed international condemnation as irrelevant, singling out France with sharp criticism. He accused Western nations, particularly Paris, of hypocrisy, accusing them of attempting to impose their values through media control.

In a defiant tone, Sonko declared, “If they choose these practices, that’s their problem, but we will not accept any lessons from them—absolutely not.” He further warned that if deemed necessary, the government would not hesitate to tighten the law even further.