The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, stood firmly behind the strict enforcement of the newly enacted law targeting acts deemed ‘against nature’ during a parliamentary session on Friday. Addressing lawmakers, he made it clear that the government will not waver in applying the provisions of the revised penal code.
Speaking in response to questions from deputies, Sonko emphasized that the primary focus now is ensuring the law’s full implementation. He stressed that once legislation is passed and signed into law, all citizens—regardless of prior opposition—must comply with its terms.
The controversial legislation, signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 27, 2026, amends Article 319 of the 1965 Penal Code. The reform introduces stricter penalties for individuals convicted of offenses classified as ‘unnatural acts,’ including provisions that criminalize their advocacy and financial support.
Under the new law, offenders face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years, along with hefty fines between two and ten million West African CFA francs. The government has framed the reform as a necessary step to safeguard public health and social values, citing concerns over the spread of HIV as a key justification.
In a bold rebuttal to international backlash, particularly from Western nations, Sonko defended Senegal’s legislative sovereignty. He asserted that Senegalese citizens have the right to determine their own societal norms without external interference, declaring that the country has ‘no lessons to learn’ from abroad on this matter.
The Prime Minister categorically ruled out any possibility of a moratorium on the law’s enforcement, signaling the government’s unwavering commitment to its full application.
