“Homosexuals will no longer breathe in this country.": Senegal MPs back law doubling prison terms for gay relations

Senegal’s National Assembly has voted to dramatically toughen the country’s already harsh anti‑LGBTQ+ laws, passing legislation that doubles the maximum prison sentence for same‑sex relations from five to ten years amid an escalating crackdown on the community. The bill, approved on Wednesday, 12 March by an overwhelming majority of MPs, now awaits the signature of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye before entering into force. 

The legislation expands the definition of “acts against nature” - a term used by lawmakers to criminalise same‑sex relations - to include a range of consensual same‑sex conduct, setting a new sentencing range of five to ten years’ imprisonment and imposing significantly higher fines of up to 10 million CFA francs (£7,000–£14,000). Previously, the penalty stood between one and five years with far lower fines.

In addition to harsher prison terms, the bill introduces new offences targeting those accused of promoting or financing same‑sex relationships, who could face three to seven years in prison. It also includes a controversial provision criminalising accusations of homosexuality made “without proof”, a clause that lawmakers say is intended to limit malicious allegations but which activists warn could be used arbitrarily. 

The vote comes during a period of intensified police action against LGBTQ+ people, with media reports documenting dozens of arrests since February - some based on phone searches and public accusations, and several involving well‑known public figures. 

The parliamentary debate was marked by inflammatory rhetoric, with some lawmakers openly celebrating the crackdown. One MP, Diaraye Ba, declared during the session: “Homosexuals will no longer breathe in this country,” drawing applause from colleagues. Human rights groups have condemned the legislation as a grave violation of basic freedoms and warned it will further endanger an already marginalised community. 

The bill’s passage reflects growing political pressure in Senegal’s Muslim‑majority society, where religious groups have repeatedly demanded stronger punitive measures against LGBTQ+ people. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko had previously vowed to toughen the law, which still classifies same‑sex relations as a misdemeanour despite the heightened penalties. 

If signed into law, Senegal will become one of the most punitive countries in Africa regarding same‑sex conduct, deepening concerns among international observers and placing LGBTQ+ Senegalese citizens at even greater risk.