Sénégal prime minister Ousmane Sonko confirms strict enforcement of new anti-homosexuality law

Sénégal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has confirmed that the recently tightened regulations against homosexuality will be strictly implemented.

During a legislative session at the Assemblée nationale on Friday, May 22, 2026, the head of the government addressed the nation regarding the controversial legal changes. Addressing the Sénégal parliament, Ousmane Sonko responded to international pressure, particularly from Western nations, regarding the increased penalties for what the local legal code terms “acts against nature.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that Sénégal remains a sovereign state committed to upholding the cultural and social standards of its citizens. He noted that the vast majority of the Sénégal population does not support certain practices and that the government is duty-bound to reflect this societal consensus in its African governance.

Rejecting Western ideological dominance

In his address, Ousmane Sonko was vocal about what he described as a “tyranny” from the West. He questioned the authority of a small global minority to impose their views on homosexuality onto the rest of the world, especially when such debates remain unresolved even within those Western societies. He dismissed criticisms from various figures, including legal experts like Alice Nkom, asserting that the law passed by the Assemblée nationale will be executed without hesitation.

“This law will be applied,” Ousmane Sonko declared, confirming that no delay or moratorium will follow the official promulgation of the text. This statement reinforces the administration’s stance on African current affairs and its resistance to external interference. This is Africa breaking news that highlights the tension between local legislation and international expectations.

The legislative update, specifically Law n°2026-08 dated March 27, 2026, modifies Article 319 of the 1965 Penal Code. The revised statute provides a clearer definition of “acts against nature” while significantly increasing the associated criminal penalties. It also criminalizes the promotion and funding of such activities.

According to the new legal text, any sexual act between individuals of the same gender is classified as an act against nature. The definition also extends to sexual acts involving animals or human remains. Those found guilty under this law face prison sentences ranging from 5 to 10 years and fines between 2,000,000 and 10,000,000 francs CFA. These punishments are applied independently of any other charges related to sexual assault or child endangerment.