Senegal prime minister stands firm on anti-lgbtq+ law amid assembly debate

Ousmane Sonko, Senegal’s Prime Minister, took a resolute stance on Friday as he presented the newly strengthened law targeting unnatural acts before the National Assembly. During a session of parliamentary questions, the government leader articulated a clear and unwavering position, framing the issue as a response to what he described as the escalating prevalence of the phenomenon.

Addressing lawmakers directly, Sonko emphasized that the legislation applies universally without targeting any specific individuals. “A law, once passed, is impersonal. No provision was included to single out anyone,” he stated firmly from the floor of the assembly.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the support of several religious authorities for the legislative push. He noted that clerics and faith leaders had reached out to the government to express their approval of the initiative.

In a speech laced with urgency, Sonko painted a vivid picture of suspected networks facilitating these practices in Senegal. He referenced cases involving young students reportedly receiving financial incentives and smartphones, warning that state inaction could normalize the behavior within Senegalese society.

Sonko underscored the need for strict enforcement, urging the judiciary to adopt a firm approach. “Justice must ensure the law is applied fully, thoroughly, and impartially,” he insisted, vowing that no individuals involved would be shielded. “We will not protect the big players,” he declared, signaling zero tolerance for violations.

The Prime Minister dismissed suggestions of external pressure influencing the country’s societal choices. Referencing certain Western nations, he reaffirmed Senegal’s sovereignty, asserting that “we owe no lessons to anyone.” He contended that “the Senegalese people, as a whole, reject this practice.”

Sonko also criticized what he sees as attempts to impose cultural and social models on African nations. He singled out “a segment of the Senegalese elite” for what he termed “an inferiority complex” when confronting Western positions.

Concluding his address, Sonko ruled out any possibility of suspending or softening the measure. “There will be no moratorium,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s full commitment to implementing the law without compromise.