Prime Minister of Senegal proposes 10-year prison sentence for same-sex relations

The Prime Minister of Senegal Ousmane Sonko has proposed introducing a mandatory 10-year prison sentence for same-sex relations, a move that has sparked fierce debate within Senegal and drawn criticism from international human rights organisations.

Speaking at a public address in Dakar, Mr Sonko said the proposed legislation would “strengthen moral values” and reflect what he described as the country’s cultural and religious foundations. He argued that existing laws do not go far enough and called for tougher penalties to “deter behaviours that are contrary to our social norms”.

Same-sex relations are already criminalised in Senegal under Article 319 of the penal code, which provides for prison terms ranging from one to five years. The Prime Minister’s proposal would significantly increase the minimum sentence to 10 years if passed by the National Assembly.

The announcement has prompted concern among rights groups, who say the measure would further marginalise LGBTQ+ people and expose them to heightened risks of arrest, violence and discrimination. Several local advocacy organisations warned that harsher penalties could drive vulnerable communities further underground, limiting access to health care and legal protections.

International organisations have also reacted strongly. Amnesty International said in a statement that increasing prison sentences would be “a grave violation of fundamental human rights” and urged the government to instead repeal laws criminalising consensual same-sex relations.

Supporters of the proposal, including some religious leaders, have welcomed the move, describing it as necessary to protect traditional values in a predominantly Muslim country. Public opinion in Senegal has historically been conservative on issues of sexuality, and political leaders have often faced pressure from religious groups to maintain strict laws.

Legal analysts note that for the proposal to become law, it would require formal drafting, parliamentary debate and approval by lawmakers. It remains unclear when the bill might be tabled or whether it will face significant opposition within the legislature.

The development comes amid broader debates across parts of West Africa over LGBTQ+ rights, with some governments tightening restrictions while others face international scrutiny over human rights records.

If enacted, the proposed measure would place Senegal among the countries with some of the harshest penalties for same-sex relations in the region, further intensifying a contentious and deeply polarised national conversation.