Senegal arrests politician linked to Ousmane Sonko over alleged unnatural acts

Political figure with ties to Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko detained in Senegal

Matar Ndiaga Seck, a 51-year-old figure frequently identified as a political associate of Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, was taken into custody by the Criminal Investigations Division (DIC) amid allegations of “unnatural acts”. The arrest follows a warrant issued by police in Linguère, located in the northern Louga region.

Investigation into alleged offenses in the Djoloff region

Investigators claim to have gathered consistent evidence linking Seck to a broader case involving at least twenty individuals arrested in the Djoloff area. Authorities have yet to release specifics regarding the charges or the current status of the legal proceedings.

Legal framework and recent legislative changes in Senegal

The term “unnatural acts” refers to Article 319 of Senegal’s Penal Code, which criminalizes same-sex relations. In a significant shift, a new law enacted on March 31, 2026, has intensified penalties for homosexuality, introducing prison sentences of up to ten years and expanding the scope of offenses related to the “promotion” of same-sex relationships.

Since the law’s implementation, over a hundred arrests have been reported across the country. Notably, a French national has been detained in Senegal since February 14 in a similar case, with support groups actively assisting in legal defense.

Advocacy groups have mobilized emergency response measures, including a dedicated support campaign for victims of violence and persecution in Senegal. The international hotline has already received over 3,000 requests for assistance.