Senegal’s stance on homosexuality: prime minister Sonko rejects western influence

The debate over homosexuality in Senegal has intensified after Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko publicly condemned what he describes as Western pressure to normalize same-sex relationships in Africa. Speaking before parliament on May 22, Sonko labeled this influence a form of cultural tyranny, rejecting any notion of relaxing laws that criminalize homosexual acts.

This declaration comes shortly after Senegal’s parliament approved stricter penalties for homosexuality in early March. The revised legislation, signed into law by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31, now imposes prison sentences ranging from five to ten years for individuals convicted of same-sex relations. The move reflects a growing legal crackdown in a country where public sentiment strongly opposes LGBTQ+ rights, with multiple arrests already recorded under the new framework.

Western pressure called out in Senegal’s parliament

During his address, Sonko criticized Western nations for attempting to impose their values on African societies. He argued that a small group of powerful Western countries seeks to export their cultural and moral standards globally, using media and political influence as tools. “Why do they think they can dictate what is acceptable in our society?” he questioned, emphasizing that Senegal will not accept external moral lessons on this issue.

He specifically targeted France, highlighting what he described as “excessive posturing” from French officials regarding Senegal’s legal stance. “If they choose to adopt these practices, that is their choice. But we do not accept their lectures, not at all,” he declared.

No retreat on anti-homosexuality laws

Sonko drew a sharp contrast between Western advocacy and the silence of other African, Arab, and Asian nations on the matter. He accused Western powers of attempting to reshape global morality through legal and cultural imposition. “We will not bow to their diktat, their culture, or their civilization,” he asserted.

The prime minister made it clear that Senegal’s government intends to enforce the new law rigorously and could even consider tightening it further. “If the law needs to be strengthened, it will be strengthened,” he stated firmly before lawmakers, signaling that no compromise on this issue is expected.